Early Life and Education
John Dando Sedding was born on April 13, 1838, in Eton, Buckinghamshire, England. His father, John Sedding, was a schoolmaster at Eton College, which influenced Sedding's early educational environment. Sedding was educated at Marlborough College, where he developed an early interest in art and architecture.
Architectural Training and Early Career
Sedding began his architectural training in 1858 under the tutelage of George Edmund Street, a leading figure of the Gothic Revival movement. Street's influence is evident in Sedding's later works, which often featured Gothic elements combined with a more free-flowing, artistic style. After his apprenticeship, Sedding worked for a time with John Prichard in Llandaff, Wales, further honing his skills in ecclesiastical architecture.
Professional Practice and Notable Works
In 1862, Sedding established his own practice. He quickly became known for his ecclesiastical designs, which were characterized by their innovative use of space, light, and decorative detail. Sedding's approach blended Gothic Revival principles with a sensitivity to the Arts and Crafts movement, of which he was a pioneer.
One of Sedding's most notable works is the Holy Trinity Church in Sloane Street, London, completed in 1890. The church is celebrated for its elaborate interior, featuring intricate carvings, stained glass, and a harmonious integration of various art forms. Another significant project is St. Clement’s Church in Boscombe, Bournemouth, known for its striking roof structure and artistic craftsmanship.
Sedding's work extended beyond church buildings; he also designed memorials, schools, and houses. His design philosophy emphasized the importance of craftsmanship and the integration of all arts within architecture, aligning closely with the principles of the Arts and Crafts movement.
Influence and Legacy
Sedding was deeply involved in the Arts and Crafts movement, which sought to revive traditional craftsmanship and integrate it with modern design. He was a member of the Art Workers' Guild and a founder of the Architectural Association. His writings, including "Art and Handicraft" (1893), articulated his belief in the unity of all the arts and the value of handcrafted work in the modern age.
Sedding's influence extended to a new generation of architects and craftsmen. Among his notable pupils were Henry Wilson and Ernest Newton, who would carry forward his ideas into the 20th century. Sedding's holistic approach to design and his emphasis on artistic collaboration left a lasting impact on the field of architecture.
Personal Life and Death
John Dando Sedding married Elizabeth Garrett in 1870, and they had several children. Sedding was known for his devout Christian faith, which deeply influenced his work and his approach to church design. He was described as a kind and inspiring figure, both to his family and his colleagues.
Sedding's life was cut short when he died on April 7, 1891, just shy of his 53rd birthday, in Taunton, Somerset. Despite his relatively short career, Sedding's contributions to architecture were significant and enduring.
References
- "John Dando Sedding." The Victorian Web. http://www.victorianweb.org/art/architecture/sedding/biography.html
- Pevsner, Nikolaus. The Buildings of England: London 3: North West. Yale University Press, 1991.
- Brooks, Chris. The Gothic Revival. Phaidon Press, 1999.
- "Holy Trinity Sloane Street." Historic England. https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/list-entry/1226377