James Caulfield

James Caulfield (1764–1826) was an English author and printseller, known also as a publisher and editor.

Early life Caulfield was born in the Vineyard, Clerkenwell, on 11 February 1764. His father was a music engraver, but poor eyesight prevented him following in his footsteps. In Cambridge for the sake of his health, he encountered Christopher Sharpe, a print collector, who gave him some etchings, and money to purchase more. Caulfield became a bidder at Hutchins's sale-room in King Street, Covent Garden.

Dealer Backed by his father, Caulfield set up in business as a printseller in a small shop in Old Round Court, Strand. There he was visited by Samuel Johnson and Richard Cosway. In 1784 Caulfield helped out his father, who had been given large quantity of music by John Ashley, to engrave for the Handel commemoration. With the additional capital he moved to larger premises in Castle Street, Leicester Square. About 1795 he moved, this time to 6 Clare Court, Drury Lane; and in 1797 he occupied premises in William Street, Adelphi, and afterwards in 11, Old Compton Street, Soho. In 1814 Caulfield resided in Wells Street, Oxford Street, and until 1820 was mainly occupied in the sale of engravings, the illustration of books, and the compilation of catalogues. In more prosperous times he had received the patronage of notable collectors including Earl Spencer, Charles Towneley, James Bindley, and Clayton Mordaunt Cracherode. Biographical Sketches illustrative of British History [by J. C.], London, 1823; three numbers issued. A Biographical History of England, by the Rev. James Granger, fifth edition, with upwards of 400 additional Lives [ed. by J. C.], London, 1824, 6 vols.