Aycliffe (or Ayliffe), Thomas snr

‘The Bathing Tubb’, Newport St, London; turner (fl. 1713–37)

Took an app. in 1713. Together with partner William Grindall, Ayliffe was supplier of bathtubs to the household of George I and George II, 1727-37. When Grindall died in 1731 he was succeeded in the partnership by his widow, Hannah. After 1736 Ayliffe acted alone, suggesting that Hannah too had died by this date.

The royal baths were of wood, presumably of coopered construction and bound with metal hoops. Some examples had castors and brass handles to aid movement. Protective floor cloths and other bathing paraphernalia were also supplied.

Source: DEFM; Marschner, ‘Baths and Bathing at the Early Georgian Court’, Furniture History (1995).