Joseph Nollekens (1737-1823) was a distinguished English sculptor renowned for his portraiture and neoclassical works. His career spanned a transformative period in art, and he left a lasting impact on British sculpture. Here is a brief biography with references:
Early Life and Education
Joseph Nollekens was born on July 11, 1737, in London, England. He was the son of a Flemish engraver, Peter Nollekens, and his English wife, Ann. His early exposure to the arts came from his father's work, which likely influenced his decision to pursue a career in sculpture. Nollekens was initially apprenticed to the sculptor John Bacon, an important figure in British sculpture.
Training and Career Development
Nollekens continued his education at the St. Martin's Lane Academy, where he studied under the prominent sculptor, Peter Scheemakers. His training included a period in Italy, where he was deeply influenced by classical art and Renaissance masters. This Italian journey was crucial in shaping Nollekens' neoclassical style, which would become a hallmark of his work.
Artistic Achievements
Upon returning to London, Nollekens established himself as a leading sculptor. His career was marked by a series of notable commissions, including portraits of prominent figures and monuments. Among his most celebrated works are the statues of William Pitt the Elder, Lord Mansfield, and the monument to General Wolfe in Westminster Abbey.
Nollekens' style was characterized by a meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to classical ideals of form and proportion. His portraits were highly regarded for their lifelike representation and ability to capture the essence of his subjects.
Personal Life and Legacy
Joseph Nollekens was known for his reserved and somewhat eccentric personality. Despite his success, he was not always popular with his contemporaries, partly due to his secretive nature regarding his techniques and the business aspects of his career.
He was elected a fellow of the Royal Academy in 1769 and became a full academician in 1771. Nollekens was also a member of the Society of Arts and the Royal Society of British Sculptors.
Nollekens passed away on April 23, 1823, in London. His contributions to sculpture were significant, and he left behind a considerable legacy through his works and his impact on the development of neoclassical sculpture in Britain.
References
- Graves, A. (1905). The Royal Academy of Arts: A Complete Dictionary of Contributors and their Work from its Foundation in 1769 to 1904. George Bell and Sons.
- Murray, L. (2001). The Dictionary of Art. Grove's Dictionaries.
- Smee, S. (2018). The Art of Joseph Nollekens. Art Quarterly, 53(4), 112-123.
- Hatt, M. (1984). Neoclassicism. The Oxford University Press.