Violin by Furber family for Perry, London, 1829
This violin has now sold.
About Thomas Perry II
Thomas Perry II is Ireland´s best-known violin maker. He learnt his craft from his father, Thomas Perry I, but went on to further the family name through the establishment of a large and successful workshop. A prolific maker himself, Perry also employed a number of makers in order to keep up with demand. These makers included Richard Tobin and Vincenzo Panormo, both of whom made very fine instruments.
By 1790, Perry had entered into partnership with his son-in-law, William Wilkinson. The Perry & Wilkinson shop continued trading after Perry´s death in 1818.
About the Furber family
The Furber family were a prolific and numerous clan who were central to the London instrument making scene. Many of the members of this family supplied instruments to more illustrious makers and firms, including Thomas Perry, the so-called Irish Stradivari.
The work of the family can be used to chart the fashions in the London violin making trade: the earliest member, David Furber, was making the high-arched Stainer models typical of the middle of the 18th century. By the next generation, family members were making Stradivari and Amati model instruments, mainly for Betts and other members of the trade.
About the violin
As was fashionable in London at the time, this violin is modelled after Stradivarius´ long pattern period of the 1690s. Though the worksmanship is quick, the Furber family really knew what they were doing: this violin sounds amazing! Interestingly, we sold the twin of this violin last year, also made in 1829.
The violin has a two piece back of fairly plain maple. The ribs and scroll are of similar wood. The two piece front is of wide grained spruce and the varnish is a pale golden-brown, laid over an almost greenish ground.
The violin has a length of back of 358 mm.
How does it sound?
This violin has an intimate warmth about it but also has large reserves of power available when needed. The sound is in direct contrast to the slightly rough and ready workmanship: it is smooth, velvety and very sophisticated. The quality of the sound makes this a real joy to play.
Condition
The violin is in very good condition. It bears the Perry, Dublin brand below the button and is labelled `Perry Maker, Dublin, 1829´.