Robert Laurie ( 1755 - 1836)

Born in London son of Robert and Ann Lowry (he sometimes used this name early in his career). In 1770 the Society of Arts awarded him a silver platter for a drawing, and in 1775 and 1776 premiums of five and ten guineas for patterns for calico printing. In 1776 he was given an award of thirty guineas for disclosing a new method of printing mezzo tints in colour. He worked independently for a few years before returning to work with Robert Sayer. In 1794 he took over the business, acquiring the entire stock for £5,000, in partnership with James Whittle.