Amati > Makers Archive > S > Thomas Simpson

Thomas Simpson

1864–1933

Piano repairer in Walsall until 1898. Thereafter active as a self-taught violin and bow maker in Peterborough. Moved to Birmingham 1900; occupied as a repairer. Retired to Brixham 1925. Inconsistent and unrefined but careful work. Violins sometimes branded with initials, date, and number. — John Dilworth
Made Viola, Violin
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Auction Price History

Highest auction price

£1,680

9 results

Type Details Auction house Sold Price
ViolaLabelled T. Simpson musical instrument maker at the Bass Viol and Flute in Sweetings Alley opposite ... Lot 143—October 2012£1,680est. £ 1,500-2,000
Viola42.0 cm 1900—June 2000£690
Violin1905—October 1994£1,035
Violin1905—March 1992£1,430
Violin1916—June 1990£660
Viola40.6 cm 1934—April 1987£770
Violin1905—March 1986£183
Viola41.1 cm 1905—April 1985£440
Violin1904—November 1983£418

Biographies

The overview above is drawn from the following published accounts. Read them in the original:

John Dilworth+

SIMPSON, Thomas Born 1864 Burnley, Lancashire, died 1933 Birmingham UK. Piano repairer in Walsall until 1898. Thereafter active as a self-taught violin and bow maker in Peterborough. Moved to Birmingham 1900; occupied as a repairer. Retired to Brixham 1925. Inconsistent and unrefined but careful work. Violins sometimes branded with initials, date, and number. Bows branded: SIMPSON BIRMINGHAM Thomas Simpson / fecit Dei gloriae / Handsworth No.. 1902

William Meredith Morris+

He was born at Burnley, Dec. 28, 1866, and works at 55 Thornhill Road, Handsworth. His model is original. The workmanship is good, and the tone bright and clear. I do not care for his varnish. His wood is excellent both in appearance and tonal qualities. Facsimile label : —

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