Monument to the Memory of Sir John Fleet Knight in St Mary's Church Battersea
Watercolour by Daniel Lysons depicting the Monument to the Memory of Sir John Fleet Knight in St Mary's Church Battersea. Late 18th Century - Early 19th Century.
This watercolour depicts the Monument to Sir John Fleet (1648–1712) Attributed to an unknown sculptor, c.1712 in
marble and painted stone located at St Mary's Church, Battersea.
This memorial cartouche commemorates Sir John Fleet, a prominent London merchant, Member of Parliament, and unanimously elected Lord Mayor of London in 1693. The monument cartouche consist of a wavy-edged central field surrounded by grand curtains with gilt tassels, scrolls, drapery, and abundant fruits, flowers, and grains. At the base are crossed sword and sceptre, flanked by painted shields and winged cherub heads. The top features another painted shield of arms and a knight’s helm surmounted by a water-lion.
The eulogy inscribed on the monument highlights his distinguished public service and widespread acclaim. It says : "Sacred
To the memory of ST JOHN FLLEET Knt.Alderman of the City of London. He was unanimously Elected Lord Mayor of that City in 1695.
He received Royal Favour and all marks of the greatest Honour & Esteem from his Fellow citizens having been one of their Representatives in Parliament thirteen years and constantly intrusted in their highest Stations. In all which Offices and Honours he was universally Applauded.
He was a mercifull and just Magistrate constant to the Church, loyal to his Prince and true to his country. He was Fortunate and Honest Bountifull in Charity a Generous Benefactor and a faithfull
Friend.Obiit 6 julii 1712 Erat 65."
Born in Buckinghamshire, Fleet rose through the ranks of London’s merchant class, becoming Master of both the Coopers’ and Grocers’ Companies. He served as Sheriff, MP, and Lord Mayor, and was knighted in 1688. His connection to Battersea stems from his residence there in later life. Upon his death in 1712, he was buried at St Mary's Church, Battersea.
Artist Biography
Daniel Lysons (1762–1834) An English antiquarian and topographer, Daniel Lysons is best known for The Environs of London (1792–96), a four-volume survey of towns and villages surrounding the capital. Born in Gloucestershire and educated at Oxford, Lysons served as a curate in Putney, where he began documenting London’s outskirts with encouragement from Horace Walpole. His work, often produced in collaboration with his brother Samuel, remains a vital resource for understanding the historical geography of London and its surrounding counties.
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