John Stow Paintings

John Stow was not an artist in the traditional sense of a visual artist, but rather an English historian and antiquarian, renowned for his written works on the history of London and England. Born in approximately 1525 in London, Stow came from a humble background; his father was a tallow chandler. Despite his modest upbringing, Stow developed a passion for English history and antiquities, which would become the focus of his life's work.

Stow spent much of his life collecting books, documents, and records of England's past, and he became known for his detailed research and dedication to accuracy. His most famous work is the 'Survey of London,' first published in 1598. This expansive work offers a detailed account of the city's history, its wards, churches, and notable events, and it has been invaluable to historians for its rich descriptions of Tudor London. In addition to the 'Survey,' Stow wrote a number of other books, including 'The Summarie of Englyshe Chronicles' and 'The Chronicles of England,' which traced the history of England from the earliest times through the reigns of the monarchs.

Throughout his life, Stow struggled financially. He was granted a Royal Patent by King James I, allowing him to collect charitable donations, known as 'benefactions,' which somewhat alleviated his poverty. Despite his financial difficulties, Stow never ceased his scholarly pursuits. He was also a member of the Merchant Taylors' Company, though not particularly wealthy or influential within it.

John Stow died on April 5, 1605, in London. His dedication to documenting the history of London and England left a lasting legacy, and his works continue to be referenced by scholars and historians today. The 'Survey of London' has been updated and republished numerous times over the centuries, each edition building upon the meticulous foundation laid by Stow. His commitment to historical accuracy and his monumental efforts in preserving the past have made him a respected figure in the field of English history.