Biography

John Gibson was a prominent Welsh sculptor born in 1790, who became a leading figure in the neoclassical movement. He honed his craft in Rome under the tutelage of the renowned sculptor Antonio Canova, which significantly influenced his style and technique. Gibson was particularly skilled in creating bas-reliefs, with notable works such as 'The Hours Leading the Horses of the Sun' and 'Phaethon Driving the Chariot of the Sun'. His proficiency extended to monumental and portrait statuary, earning him commissions for significant public sculptures, including statues of Sir Robert Peel at Westminster Abbey, William Huskisson at St George's Square, and Queen Victoria at the Houses of Parliament. Gibson's contributions to sculpture were recognized by his election as a Royal Academician in 1836, a testament to his influence and mastery in the field. Upon his death in 1866, he bequeathed the contents of his studio to the Royal Academy, ensuring that his legacy and works would continue to inspire future generations. Collectors and art historians value Gibson's work for its classical elegance and technical precision, which embody the ideals of the neoclassical style.