James Paty the Elder

James Paty the Elder (sometimes spelled Patty) (died 1748) was an English mason, builder and architect.

He was the first in a succession of members of the Paty family prominent in the building of 18th century Bristol.

[1][2] There is no definite evidence for the relation of James to the other members of the Paty family.

[7] He was brought in by Thomas Paty to work as a stone carver on the Exchange where he carved at least one of the capitals.

Unfortunately, most of the library's ornamentation has been lost over time and as a result of repairs: in particular, a fine Bristol coat of arms on the pediment and figures of putti depicted reading books above the first floor windows.