John Thompson (engraver)

John Thompson's drawing and engraving of the black redstart in William Yarrell's 1843 History of British Birds.
Rare signature "Thompson Del et Sc" (Thompson drew and carved this) at lower right of black redstart

John Thompson (25 May 1785 – 20 February 1866) was a British wood-engraver. He is best known for his contribution to William Yarrell's 1843 History of British Birds. He was described as the most distinguished wood-engraver of his time.

Thompson also engraved the design for the 1839 penny postage envelope, on a brass plate; and the design for the iconic figure of Britannia which appeared on British banknotes.