Flaxman, John

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Flaxman, John (1755–1826). English sculptor, designer, and book illustrator. He studied at the Royal Academy Schools, before working as a designer for Josiah Wedgwood. In 1787 Flaxman travelled to Italy to study. During the seven years he spent there, he drew illustrations for the Iliad, the Odyssey, and works of Dante and Aeschylus, which earned him an international reputation. On his return to England he was immediately in demand as a sculptor of monuments and figures; among the best known are those to Lord Mansfield in Westminster abbey and Lord Nelson in St Paul's, although his work can be found in many churches, cathedrals, stately homes, and galleries throughout Britain. Appointed RA in 1800, he became the first professor of sculpture in 1812. He continued to draw book illustrations, some of which were engraved by his friend William Blake, and designs for silverware. Much of his work is held at University College, London.

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John Flaxman

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