Monument To Thomas Stothard, South Enclosure

The monument is a headstone commemorating the painter and graphic artist Thomas Stothard (1755-1834), his wife Rebecca, and two members of her family, Walter and Elizabeth Watkins. Constructed around 1834 from Portland stone, it takes the form of an upright stone slab with a pointed arched top.

Thomas Stothard was a prolific book illustrator, initially trained as a silk pattern designer before attending the Royal Academy Schools. He produced thousands of works, including designs for Wedgwood pottery and depictions such as his famous portrayal of Chaucer's pilgrims. He served as librarian at the Royal Academy from 1812 until his death and researched an unpublished biographical dictionary of painters.

Bunhill Fields burial ground was first enclosed in 1665 and became a significant Nonconformist cemetery, the final resting place of notable figures like John Bunyan and William Blake. The monument is located within the Grade I registered Bunhill Fields Burial Ground and possesses group value alongside other listed tombs within the south enclosure. The monument is designated at Grade II to recognize its commemoration of a celebrated artist and its contribution to the wider significance of the burial ground.