Gaudy, John

Born deaf in Norfolk, second of four sons; his brother, fourth son, Framlingham Gaudy (q.v.) was also deaf. Tutored at home, probably by John Cressener, then studied art under Sir Peter Lely, intending to become a professional artist. However, when his older brother died early of smallpox, John became heir to the baronacy, acquiring it upon his father's death in 1669. Now not needing to work for a living, he only dabbled in painting, and 3 of his works are known to survive, one self-portrait and two portraits of his probably-hearing wife.