JOHN

See also:

• JOHN BOYDELL (1719-1804)

BOYDELL (1719-1804)  , English alderman and publisher, was born at Dorrington, and at the age of twenty-one came to London and was apprenticed for seven years to an engraver . In 1746 he published a volume of views in England and Wales, and started in business as a print-seller . By his good taste and liberality he managed to secure the services of the best artists, and his engravings were executed with such skill that his business became extensive and lucrative . He succeeded in his plan of a Shakespeare gallery, and obtained the assistance of the most eminent painters of the day, whose contributions were exhibited publicly for many years . The engravings from these paintings form a splendid companion volume to his large illustrated edition of Shakespeare's works . Towards the close of his life Boydell sustained severe losses through the French Revolution, and was compelled to dispose of his Shakespeare gallery by lottery . Boydell had previously become an alderman, and rose to be lord mayor of London .