James Gibbs

On taking over Kneller's studio in 1731, Dandridge dominated portraiture for the next decade, his "full and free pencil" and "light easy design" (Vertue) contributing greatly to the development of the conversation piece.  This undated work, signed "B.D.", shows Gibbs holding what is probably an architectural drawing.

Portrait of James Gibbs. Artist: Bartholomew Dandridge.

James Gibbs (1682-1754) was one of the most influential church architects in the age of Queen Anne.  On his return from Rome in 1709, Gibbs injected mannerist and baroque elements into contemporary styles of Wren.  His famous designs include St Mary-le-Strand (1713-14) and St Martin-in-the-Fields (1720).  Gibbs designed the Octagon Room for James Johnston and the Duke of Argyll's villa Sudbrook Park in Petersham.  He also advised and possibly played a role in design of Pope's Villa in Twickenham.

This work was one of those cleaned and conserved in 2001.