Who was John Deval, and what were his primary professions and roles?

John Deval (1701–1774) was an 18th-century British sculptor and Master Mason. He held the significant position of Chief Mason to the Crown and was responsible for masonry work at important royal sites such as the Tower of London and the Royal Mews.

What familial connection is mentioned regarding John Deval and his profession?

John Deval had a namesake son, also named John Deval (1728–1794), who followed in his father's footsteps as a sculptor and Master Mason, also achieving high positions within their trade.

Where and when was John Deval (the elder) born, and what were the circumstances of his birth?

John Deval was born in Eynsham, Oxfordshire, in 1701. His father, George Deval, had died shortly before his birth.

Who was John Deval's master during his apprenticeship, and where was this apprenticeship located?

John Deval was a bound apprentice to Joshua Fletcher of Woodstock, Oxfordshire, starting in 1718. This apprenticeship was a formal training period common for skilled trades during that era.

When did John Deval become a Freeman, and where did he move to pursue his career?

John Deval became a Freeman in 1727. In historical contexts, becoming a Freeman typically meant gaining full membership in a city or guild, granting certain rights and privileges, such as the ability to trade or practice a craft freely within that jurisdiction. He subsequently moved to London to work for Andrew Jelfe.

What were John Deval's key appointments in his later career?

Around 1750, John Deval became Master Mason to the King, indicating his prominence and royal patronage. He also achieved the highest position within his trade guild, becoming Master of the Worshipful Company of Masons in London in 1760.

When did John Deval (the elder) die, and where was he buried?

John Deval died in 1774 and was buried in Isleworth.

What is known about the early career and training of John Deval the younger?

John Deval the younger, born in 1728, trained under his father. This familial training ensured the continuation of skills and knowledge within the Deval dynasty of masons and sculptors.

What high-ranking positions did John Deval the younger attain in his career?

John Deval the younger became Master Mason to the King in 1774, succeeding his father in this royal appointment. He also followed in his father's footsteps by being made Master of the Worshipful Company of Masons in 1784, reaching the pinnacle of his professional guild.

What were some of the early architectural projects John Deval the elder was involved in during the 1730s?

In the 1730s, John Deval the elder was involved in projects including St Olave's Church in Southwark (1737), Kimbolton Castle (1738), and creating marble tables for Lord Folkestone at Longford Castle (1738). He also worked on chimneypieces for Sir Richard Hoare at Barn Elms House (1739).

What significant public buildings were part of John Deval the elder's work portfolio in the late 1730s and early 1740s?

John Deval the elder contributed to major London institutions, including Mansion House, London, for which he worked from 1739 to 1750, and Guy's Hospital, where his involvement was in 1739. He was also associated with Cornbury House in 1740.

What was John Deval the elder's role at the Foundling Hospital in London?

John Deval the elder worked on the Foundling Hospital in London from 1742 to 1752. Notably, the chapel within the hospital was built in 1747 during his tenure.

Beyond new construction, what other significant masonry work did John Deval the elder undertake?

John Deval the elder was responsible for ongoing repairs to the Tower of London from 1750 to 1770, a task that involved reducing fortifications. He also created relief panels in the hall and chimneypieces throughout Woburn Abbey in 1751.

What specific projects highlight John Deval the elder's work on residential properties and public institutions in the mid-18th century?

John Deval the elder created chimneypieces at Weald Hall for Christopher Tower (1755) and a notably large chimneypiece at Milton Hall for Lord Fitzwilliam (1756). His work also included chimneypieces at Nostell Priory for Sir Rowland Winn (1767) and involvement with Newgate Prison in 1769.

What were some of the key projects undertaken by John Deval the younger in the late 18th century?

John Deval the younger was involved in the repairs and remodeling of Cobham Hall between 1776 and 1778. His significant contributions also include work on the north and south fronts of Somerset House from 1777 to 1786, and the construction of the Mausoleum to the Earl of Radnor at Britford churchyard in 1779.

How did John Deval the younger contribute to prominent London institutions and residences?

John Deval the younger worked on Coutts Bank on the Strand, London, from 1780 to 1789. His portfolio also includes work on the King's Bench Prison (1780–1784) and the adjacent House for the Marshal of the King's Bench Prison (1781–1782). Additionally, he worked on Argyll House in London (1783), chimneypieces at Earsham Hall for William Windham (1783), and chimneypieces at Attingham Park for Lord Berwick (1785).

What were John Deval the younger's contributions to royal palaces and estates?

John Deval the younger contributed to the Queen Mary block at Greenwich Palace from 1784 to 1789. He also remodelled sections of Audley End into a Georgian style in 1785, worked on new government offices next to the Admiralty from 1786 to 1791, created statuary and marble chimneypieces for Carlton House for the Prince of Wales in 1788, and remodelled Prince Edward's apartments at St. James's Palace in 1788.

What specific works did John Deval the younger complete at St. James's Palace and Greenwich?

At St. James's Palace, John Deval the younger was responsible for remodelling Prince Edward's apartments (1788), constructing new guardrooms (1793), and working on the Waiting Room (1793). At Greenwich, his contributions included the Queen Mary block (1784–1789) and the marblework for the Royal Naval Chapel (1788).

What other notable projects are attributed to John Deval the younger, including architectural features and monuments?

John Deval the younger was involved with the Temple of Concord at Audley End (1791), chimneypieces at Bedford House (1787), a marble column at Colne Park (1791), and a monument to Thomas Spackman at Cliffe Pypard (1786).

What does the article suggest about the reliability of the information regarding the monument to Thomas Spackman?

The article includes a note indicating that the claim regarding the monument to Thomas Spackman at Cliffe Pypard (1786) requires a better source, suggesting that this particular piece of information may need further verification.

How is the image of the Royal Mews described in the text, and what is its relevance?

The image is described as showing the main entrance to the Royal Mews. This is relevant because John Deval the elder served as the mason for the Royal Mews.

What historical building is depicted in one of the images, and what is its connection to John Deval's work?

One of the images depicts the Foundling Hospital in Holborn, London. John Deval the elder was involved in its construction between 1742 and 1752, contributing to this significant charitable institution.

What prominent London building is shown in an image, and what was John Deval's connection to it?

An image shows Somerset House in London. John Deval the younger was responsible for its north and south fronts between 1777 and 1786, a major architectural undertaking.

What is the subject of the image featuring Audley End House, and what was John Deval's role there?

The image shows the Temple of Concord at Audley End House. John Deval the younger was involved in remodelling sections of Audley End into a Georgian style in 1785 and later worked on the Temple of Concord there in 1791.

What part of the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich is illustrated in an image, and who worked on it?

An image illustrates the Queen Mary block at Greenwich. John Deval the younger worked on this project between 1784 and 1789 as part of the redevelopment of the palace complex.

What does the image of the Royal Naval Chapel in Greenwich represent in relation to John Deval's work?

The image shows the interior marblework at the Royal Naval Chapel in Greenwich. John Deval the younger was responsible for creating this marblework in 1788.

What well-known London landmark is featured in an image, and what was John Deval's involvement?

An image displays Mansion House in London. John Deval the elder worked on this building, which serves as the official residence and administrative centre of the Lord Mayor of London, from 1739 to 1750.

What historical depiction is shown in an image related to Guy's Hospital, and when was John Deval involved?

The image shows Guy's Hospital in an 18th-century context. John Deval the elder was involved with this hospital, a major teaching hospital in London, in 1739.

What is depicted in the image of Newgate Prison, and what was John Deval's connection?

The image shows Newgate Prison, a notorious former prison in London. John Deval the elder was involved with this prison in 1769.

What institution is represented in the image of the King's Bench Prison, and what was John Deval's role?

The image represents the King's Bench Prison, another significant prison in London's history. John Deval the younger worked on this prison between 1780 and 1784.

What is the significance of the 'single source' notice at the beginning of the article?

The notice indicates that the article relies largely or entirely on a single source. This suggests that the information presented might be limited in scope and encourages readers or editors to seek out and incorporate additional sources to provide a more comprehensive and verified account.

What are the primary sources cited in the article for information about John Deval?

The article cites Rupert Forbes Gunnis's book, "Dictionary of British Sculptors 1660–1851," published by Yale University Press (2009), as a key reference. It also cites an online article by Mike Searle on Geograph.org.uk from February 28, 2012, which specifically discusses the monument to Thomas Spackman.

What was John Deval the elder's specific role at the Tower of London?

John Deval the elder served as the mason for the Tower of London. His responsibilities included ongoing repairs from 1750 to 1770, which notably involved reducing fortifications, suggesting adaptation or modernization of the historic structure.

What was John Deval the elder's specific role at the Royal Mews?

John Deval the elder served as the mason for the Royal Mews, indicating his involvement in the construction or maintenance of this royal stable complex.

What specific type of work did John Deval the elder perform at Longford Castle and Barn Elms House?

At Longford Castle in 1738, John Deval the elder created marble tables for Lord Folkestone. For Sir Richard Hoare at Barn Elms House in 1739, he crafted chimneypieces, showcasing his skill in decorative stonework for private residences.

What was John Deval the elder's contribution to Woburn Abbey?

John Deval the elder created relief panels in the hall and chimneypieces throughout Woburn Abbey in 1751. This indicates his work involved both structural and decorative elements within the grand estate.

What architectural elements did John Deval the younger create at Carlton House?

For the Prince of Wales at Carlton House in 1788, John Deval the younger was responsible for creating statuary and marble chimneypieces. This highlights his contribution to the opulent decoration of a major royal residence.

What was John Deval the younger's involvement with the Strand area of London?

John Deval the younger worked on Coutts Bank on the Strand, London, from 1780 to 1789, contributing to the architecture of a significant financial institution. He also created chimneypieces for Bedford House in the same area in 1787.

What role did John Deval the elder play in the construction or maintenance of Mansion House, London?

John Deval the elder was involved in the construction and maintenance of Mansion House, London, from 1739 to 1750. This period covers a significant portion of the building's development.

What specific masonry work did John Deval the elder undertake at Guy's Hospital?

John Deval the elder was involved with Guy's Hospital in 1739, contributing his skills as a Master Mason to this important medical institution.

What was John Deval the younger's contribution to Audley End?

John Deval the younger was involved in remodelling sections of Audley End into a Georgian style in 1785. He later worked on the Temple of Concord at Audley End in 1791, demonstrating his engagement with both restoration and new architectural features.

What is the significance of the Worshipful Company of Masons in relation to the Devals?

The Worshipful Company of Masons is a historic guild for stonemasons. Both John Deval the elder and John Deval the younger achieved the highest position within this company, becoming Master of the Worshipful Company of Masons. The elder held this role in 1760, and the younger in 1784, signifying their leadership and esteemed status in the trade.

What does the term 'Master Mason' signify in the context of John Deval's career?

The title 'Master Mason' denotes a highly skilled and experienced stonemason, often in a supervisory or leadership role. John Deval the elder was 'Master Mason to the Crown,' indicating a senior position within royal works, while both he and his son also became 'Master of the Worshipful Company of Masons,' signifying the highest level of achievement and authority within their professional guild.

What does the breadth of listed projects suggest about the Devals' professional scope?

The extensive list of projects attributed to both John Deval the elder and John Deval the younger, ranging from royal palaces and public institutions like hospitals and prisons to private residences and specific architectural features like chimneypieces, suggests they were highly versatile and sought-after figures in 18th-century British architecture and construction, skilled in various aspects of masonry and sculpture.

What is the approximate timeframe of John Deval the elder's professional activity as indicated by his listed works?

John Deval the elder's listed works span from 1737 (St Olave's Church) to 1770 (repairs to the Tower of London). His most intensive period of work on major projects like Mansion House and Guy's Hospital appears to be in the 1740s.

What is the approximate timeframe of John Deval the younger's professional activity as indicated by his listed works?

John Deval the younger's listed works span from 1776 (Cobham Hall) to 1793 (St. James's Palace). This indicates his active career primarily took place in the latter part of the 18th century.

What specific type of decorative masonry work is frequently mentioned in the lists of projects for both John Devals?

Chimneypieces are frequently mentioned in the lists of works for both John Deval the elder and John Deval the younger. This suggests that the design and construction of elaborate chimneypieces were a significant and recurring aspect of their professional services.

What does the mention of 'reducing fortifications' imply about John Deval the elder's work at the Tower of London?

The phrase 'reducing fortifications' suggests that John Deval the elder's work at the Tower of London involved more than just simple repairs. It implies a process of altering or diminishing the defensive structures, possibly for modernization, repurposing of space, or adapting the fortress to changing strategic needs during peacetime.

What does the phrase 'Master Mason to the Crown' imply about John Deval's status and responsibilities?

The title 'Master Mason to the Crown' signifies that John Deval held a prestigious official position, likely responsible for overseeing and executing masonry work for the monarch and royal properties. This indicates a high level of trust, skill, and importance placed upon his services by the royal household.

What is the significance of John Deval's work on prisons like Newgate Prison and King's Bench Prison?

His involvement in constructing or repairing prisons, such as Newgate Prison by the elder Deval and King's Bench Prison by the younger, highlights the diverse range of commissions undertaken by the Devals. It demonstrates that their expertise extended beyond ornamental or residential projects to encompass essential, albeit somber, public infrastructure.

John Deval Wiki: The Deval Dynasty: Architects of Georgian Britain

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Overview: The Deval Legacy

John Deval (1701–1774)

John Deval, an 18th-century British sculptor and Master Mason, held the esteemed position of Chief Mason to the Crown. His professional purview extended to critical royal sites, including the Tower of London and the Royal Mews. His career exemplifies the pivotal role of skilled artisans in shaping the built environment of Georgian England.

A Familial Tradition

The Deval legacy continued through his namesake son, John Deval the younger (1728–1794). The younger Deval followed in his father's footsteps, also achieving the prestigious rank of Master Mason to the King and later serving as Master of the Worshipful Company of Masons, perpetuating a tradition of excellence in stonework and architectural execution.

Apprenticeship and Mastery

Born in Eynsham, Oxfordshire, John Deval the elder began his formal training as an apprentice to Joshua Fletcher of Woodstock in 1718. By 1727, he had become a Freeman and relocated to London to work under Andrew Jelfe. This rigorous path culminated in his appointment as Master Mason to the King, signifying his mastery and standing within the craft.

Professional Roles & Affiliations

Chief Mason to the Crown

This significant appointment placed John Deval at the forefront of royal construction and maintenance projects. His responsibilities likely involved overseeing the stonework, structural integrity, and aesthetic execution of royal buildings, ensuring they met the highest standards of the era.

Mason for Royal Sites

His direct involvement with the Tower of London and the Royal Mews indicates his expertise in both historical preservation and new construction within sensitive royal contexts. These roles demanded not only technical skill but also an understanding of historical architectural styles and security requirements.

Master of the Masons' Company

In 1760, John Deval achieved the highest office within the Worshipful Company of Masons. This guild, one of the ancient Livery Companies of the City of London, governed the standards and practices of stonemasonry. His leadership here underscored his respected position within the broader craft community.

Notable Works: John Deval the Elder

Architectural Contributions

John Deval the elder's career spanned numerous significant projects, demonstrating a wide range of skills from ecclesiastical and civic structures to grand residences. His documented works include:

Ecclesiastical & Civic: St Olave's Church, Southwark (1737); Guy's Hospital (1739); Mansion House, London (1739–1750); Foundling Hospital, London (1742–1752, chapel 1747); Newgate Prison (1769).
Residences & Estates: Kimbolton Castle (1738); Marble tables for Lord Folkestone at Longford Castle (1738); Chimneypieces for Sir Richard Hoare at Barn Elms House (1739); Cornbury House (1740); Relief panels and chimneypieces throughout Woburn Abbey (1751); Chimneypieces at Weald Hall for Christopher Tower (1755); Large Chimneypiece at Milton Hall for Lord Fitzwilliam (1756); Chimneypieces at Nostell Priory for Sir Rowland Winn (1767).
Royal & Infrastructure: Ongoing repairs and fortification reduction at the Tower of London (1750–1770).

Notable Works: John Deval the Younger

Continuing the Craft

John Deval the younger continued his father's legacy, undertaking substantial projects that defined the later Georgian architectural period. His notable contributions include:

Major Public & Royal Buildings: Repairs and remodeling of Cobham Hall (1776–1778); North and south fronts of Somerset House (1777–1786); Coutts Bank on the Strand, London (1780–1789); King's Bench Prison (1780–1784); House for the Marshal of the King's Bench Prison (1781–1782); Queen Mary block at Greenwich Palace (1784–1789); New government offices next to the Admiralty (1786–1791); Marblework for the Royal Naval Chapel at Greenwich (1788); Remodeling of Prince Edward's apartments at St James's Palace (1788); Remodeling at Woburn Abbey (1790/1).
Grand Residences & Estates: Mausoleum for the Earl of Radnor at Britford churchyard (1779); Chimneypiece for the Long Gallery at Longford Castle (1780); Argyll House, London (1783); Chimneypieces at Earsham Hall for William Windham (1783); Chimneypieces at Attingham Park for Lord Berwick (1785); Remodeling of sections of Audley End into a Georgian style (1785); Chimneypieces for Bedford House (1787); Statuary and marble chimneypieces for Carlton House for the Prince of Wales (1788); Marble column at Colne Park (1791); The Temple of Concord at Audley End (1791).
Later Works: New guardrooms at St James's Palace (1793); The Waiting Room at St James's Palace (1793).

Visual Archive

Documented Structures

While direct image display is not possible here, the historical record includes visual documentation of many structures associated with the Deval family's work. These serve as testaments to their architectural contributions:

Queen Mary block at Greenwich: A significant component of the Royal Naval College complex, showcasing the scale of their later royal commissions.
Interior marblework at Royal Naval Chapel in Greenwich: Demonstrates the detailed craftsmanship applied to interior decorative elements.
Mansion House in London: A prominent civic building, highlighting their involvement in major London infrastructure projects.
Guy's Hospital in 18th century: Illustrates their contributions to the development of significant charitable and medical institutions.
Newgate Prison: A notable, albeit somber, example of their work on public institutions.
King's Bench Prison: Another example of their involvement in the construction and maintenance of penal institutions.

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Important Notice Regarding Content and Sources

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, synthesizing information from a primary source document derived from Wikipedia. It is intended for academic and educational purposes, providing a structured overview of the subject matter.

Accuracy and Completeness: The content is based on the provided source material, which explicitly notes its reliance on a single source. While efforts have been made to clarify and expand upon the information in an academic tone, the inherent limitations of a single source mean that the information may not be exhaustive or entirely free from bias. Users are encouraged to consult multiple authoritative sources for a comprehensive understanding.

Historical Context: Information pertains to historical figures and events. Dates, roles, and project details are presented as documented in the source. The AI does not possess real-time access to historical archives or expert interpretations beyond the provided text.

No Professional Advice: This content does not constitute architectural, historical, or professional advice. For expert consultation on historical architecture, masonry, or related fields, please engage with qualified professionals.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Deval Dynasty

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Overview: The Deval Legacy 🏛️

📜 John Deval (1701–1774)

👨‍👦 A Familial Tradition

🏗️ Apprenticeship and Mastery

Professional Roles & Affiliations 👑

👑 Chief Mason to the Crown

🏰 Mason for Royal Sites

🤝 Master of the Masons' Company

Notable Works: John Deval the Elder 🔨

🏗️ Architectural Contributions

Notable Works: John Deval the Younger 🏗️

🏛️ Continuing the Craft

Visual Archive 🖼️

📷 Documented Structures

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📜 Important Notice Regarding Content and Sources

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview: The Deval Legacy

John Deval (1701–1774)

A Familial Tradition

Apprenticeship and Mastery

Professional Roles & Affiliations

Chief Mason to the Crown

Mason for Royal Sites

Master of the Masons' Company

Notable Works: John Deval the Elder

Architectural Contributions

Notable Works: John Deval the Younger

Continuing the Craft

Visual Archive

Documented Structures

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice Regarding Content and Sources