(1785 - 1865)
Richard Golding was born to a humble, London-based family. At c.14 he began a seven year apprenticeship with engraver J. Pass but, following a disagreement, studied briefly under James Parker. Benjamin West employed him to engrave ‘Death of Nelson’ (1805). A commission to engrave Lawrence’s painting of the Princess of Wales (1801) led to several further commissions. In 1842 the Art Union of Dublin commissioned an engraving of Maclise’s ‘A Peep into Futurity’. However, failing eyesight and mental health meant the print still was unfinished in 1852. Golding died at the age of 80. His medical attendant gained most of his property, leading to accusations of poisoning. The body was exhumed but an inquest ruled he had died of natural causes.
