Spence, Thomas Ralph
Thomas Ralph Spence (1845-1918) trained in several architectural offices, both in the north of England and in London, since according to family tradition his father would not allow him to pursue a career as an artist. Initially working in Newcastle, he moved to London in 1885, where he established himself as an ‘architectural decorator’. He joined the Art Workers’ Guild and was a founding member of the Society of Designers (established 1896), and produced stained glass, metalwork (especially light fittings) and decorative schemes for various architects.
Source: T R Spence, a biographical introduction by Neil Moat on The Victorian Web