Joseph Shepherd Wyon Explained

Joseph Shepherd Wyon (28 July 1836 – 12 August 1873) was a British medallist and seal-engraver.

Life

Born in London on 28 July 1836,^[1] he was the eldest son of Benjamin Wyon. He was educated by his father, and studied in the Royal Academy Schools, where he gained two silver medals.^[2]

On 2 December 1858 Wyon was appointed Chief Engraver of the Seals, a post previously held by his father, Benjamin Wyon, and grandfather, Thomas Wyon the elder. He died at Winchester on 12 August 1873.^[2]

Works

Wyon's first important work was a medal of James Watt. On Robert Stephenson's recommendation, it was adopted as the prize medal of the Institution of Civil Engineers.^[2]

In his work as a medallist, Wyon was aided by his brothers Alfred Benjamin Wyon and Allan Wyon. The medals are often signed "J. S. and A. B. Wyon". They included:^[2]

• 1861, Steevens's Hospital medals, Dublin (Cusack prize);
• 1863, Seal of the Confederate States.^[3]
• 1863, entry of Princess Alexandra into London;
• 1846–65, New Zealand war medal;
• 1867, confederation of provinces of Canada;
• the great seal of the dominion of Canada;
• reception of the sultan of Turkey in London;
• 1867–8, Abyssinian war medal; and
• 1872, Prince of Wales's recovery.

Notes

Attribution

Notes and References

1. Book: Biographical Dictionary of Medallists. Wyon, Joseph Shepherd. Spink & Son Ltd. London. L. Forrer. 6. 1916. 588–592.
2. Wyon, Joseph Shepherd. 63.
3. 1908 . Historical Notes . The South Carolina Historical and Genealogical Magazine . 9 . 2 . 102–103 . 0148-7825.