(1661 - 1733)
Simon Gribelin was born in Blois, France, to a family of watchmakers and engravers. In 1680 he moved to England, becoming a citizen two years later. He published four books of ornament, for the use of watchmakers, jewellers and other craftsmen, and became a member of the Clockmakers’ Company in 1686. His protestant allegiances are demonstrated by two prints of 1688, supporting the seven bishops opposed to relaxing penal laws against Roman Catholics. He later illustrated books, including Lord Shaftesbury’s ‘Characteristicks’ (1714). In addition, Gribelin reproduced paintings, publishing prints after ‘The Seven Cartons [sic] of Raphael Urbin’ (1707), works in the Royal Collection (1712) and Rubens’ ceiling at the Banqueting House (1720).
