About - Coade

ABOUT US

Welcome to Coade, where our team of highly skilled artists and artisans are dedicated to recreating classical sculptures, contemporary pieces, and private commissions using Coade stone. Coade stone, developed in the 18th century by the visionary Eleanor Coade, offers a unique blend of durability, exquisite detail, and the appearance of natural stone. Eleanor Coade, a successful businesswoman of her time, was sought after by renowned architects and her work can be found throughout the British Isles and beyond. Remarkably resistant to harsh weather conditions, many of her creations remain in pristine condition even after two centuries. When Stephen Pettifer discovered that the use of Coade stone as a sculptural medium had declined and the techniques had been lost over time, he embarked on a mission to revive and perfect the original recipe and production methods from the mid-1700s. The versatility of Coade stone allows us to explore endless sculptural possibilities. Anything achievable in bronze can be accomplished in Coade. At Coade, we specialize in Coade stone, but our artistic repertoire extends to bronze, lead, stone, plaster, resin, and terracotta as well. From monumental figures enduring harsh winters to delicate fern fountains with an impressive span, our skilled sculptors can bring any vision to life. We invite you to explore our website and discover the remarkable world of Coade, where classical artistry meets contemporary craftsmanship.

THE TEAM

stephen pettifer

Stephen Pettifer trained in Sculpting, Stone Carving, Restoration and Conservation at The City & Guilds of London Art School. Having worked as a restorer and trained under influential sculptors, Stephen developed an interest in English terracotta. By an extensive process of trial and research he refined the processes used to manufacture Coade stone. Stephen founded Coade LTD in 2000 in London before moving his studio to the Wilton Estate. As well as classical work Stephen also undertakes more contemporary projects in various different styles and mediums specifically terracotta, bronze and lead. He has restored works of art for The Royal Palaces, Westminster Abbey and many Historic Houses. Stephen continues to develop as a sculptor, combining his knowledge of materials with a delicate and acute eye for his subject, pursuing his passion for portraiture and sculpture.

ALASDAIR RENNIE

Winner of the Powell-Davis Prize for painting, the Richard Ford Travel Scholarship, the Sir Roger De Grey Prize for drawing,  the David Wolfers Painting Prize, and the Diana Brooks Prize for painting, Alasdair has a degree in fine art painting from the City and Guilds of London School of Art. Alasdair has exhibited regularly at a number of galleries in London, around the country and in Ireland, and has been commissioned to paint a number of portraits including Sir John Egan (Chairman BAA), Sir John Gurdon (Master Magdalene col. Cambridge & 2012 Nobel prize winner), the Queen, and Nelson Mandela. Alasdair’s work can be found in the collections of Sir Brinsley Ford, The Royal Academy, Magdelene College (Cambridge), Haileybury, and the British Airports Authority. Alasdair joined Coade in 2000 where he has transferred his eye for line and form to sculpture.

HANNAH HARTWELL

Winner of the S.P.A.B fellowship in 1996, which enabled her to tour the country visiting restoration and conservation projects, Hannah trained in restoration and woodcarving at the City & Guilds of London School of Art. Hannah was then employed by St Paul’s Cathedral to work on a number of restoration projects including the repair of Grinling Gibbons Quirestalls. Hannah has worked on a variety of projects including replacement carving for a number of Wren city churches, All Souls College, Oxford and the Royal Exchange amongst others. Hannah joined Coade in 2006 where she has seamlessly transferred her considerable skills and exceptional eye to working in clay.