The Life and Craft of James Baylis Allen
James Baylis Allen was a British engraver born in Birmingham, United Kingdom. The son of a button-manufacturer, he initially followed his father's trade before being articled to his elder brother, Josiah Allen, a general engraver. His formal artistic training began three years later through drawing classes held by Samuel Lines and John Vincent Barber. In 1824, Allen moved to London, where he found employment in the studio of the Findens. During the 1860s, he resided in Cantelowes Road near Camden Town, sharing an address with Walter James Allen. He passed away in Camden Town after a long illness and was buried in Highgate Cemetery.
Engravings and Notable Works
Allen was part of a school of landscape-engravers that emerged in Birmingham. His technical skill is evidenced by his extensive body of engraved plates, many of which were produced after the works of prominent artists. His notable engravings include:
