Thomas (II) Perry

John Dilworth

PERRY, Thomas (II) Worked circa. 1745-1818 Dublin Republic of Ireland Son and successor of Thomas Perry (I), above. Worked at Christ Church Yard until 1771 when he moved to 6 Anglesea Street. During this time he may have worked with G. Ward of Aston’s Quay, whose work is substantially similar to instruments labelled by Perry. In 1790 entered into partnership with son-in-law W. Wilkinson. The business moved to 4 Anglesea Street in 1796 and carried on under Wilkinson’s direction until 1828, ten years after the death of Perry. Pupils and assistants include one Tregart or Deegar (whose name is signed inside at least one example), W. Ringwood, and John McNeill. Perry & Wilkinson shop eventually taken over by another pupil, John Mackintosh. At various times (c.1770 and 1789) Vincenzo Panormo was active in Dublin and very possibly working for Perry. Prolific and versatile maker; production includes plucked instruments of all kinds, various viols, and at least one double bass. Violins are generally Tyrolean in general character; various grades (the best of a very high standard); some unpurfled. Very similar to the work of Duke and other London makers. Two recipes for his varnish survive, both mixtures of various resins and alcohol in different proportions, including sandarac, venice turpentine, and seedlac. Often branded beneath the back button: ‘Perry, Dublin’ Made by / Thos. Perry and Wm. Wilkinson / Musical instrument Makers / No. 6 Anglesea Street. / No. 1502 Dublin, 1789 Made by Thomas Perry Dublin 1767 [BVMA]