COUSE, Josias (1732-1764) — London
Engraver. Engraved plans and other plates for Isaac Ware, ‘A complete body of architecture : adorned with plans and elevations’ 1756. Known principally as an engraver of architectural plates, views, lettering and pattern books, etc., many for Robert Sayer (see BME 2011), e.g. Charles Over, ‘Ornamental architecture in the Gothic, Chinese and modern taste : being above fifty intire new designs of plans, sections, elevations, &c.’ 1758, as well as the plates for John Muller, ‘A treatise containing the practical part of fortification’ 1755 for Andrew Millar. Trade-card in BM (Heal, 59.46). Also known for views, etc.
The BM gives his forename as John, but he was baptised Josias Coose or Couse of New Court 12 Apr 1732 at Carey Street non-conformist chapel. He was presumably related to the architect Kenton Couse (1720-1790), who had both a father and a son named Josias. Presumably the “Mr. Clouse” of Princes Street, Drury Lane, whose death was reported in Oct 1764. He was buried as Josias Couse at St. Clement Danes 14 Oct 1764. “His works are but little known … some other plates, which prove him to have been no indifferent artist” (Strutt).
At the Indian Queen, White Horse Yard, Stanhope Street, Clare Market
Alexander. BM. Bryan. Harris. LHD. Strutt.