Peter (I) Wamsley

John Dilworth

WAMSLEY, Peter (I) Born circa. 1640, died 1744 London UK. His establishment variously described as ‘ye Harp & Sign’ 1727, ‘the Harp’ 1729, and ‘the Harp & Hautboy’ 1730, but generally referred to as ‘the Golden Harp’ in Piccadilly (close to the shops of Barrett, Townsend,and Cross). From early work it appears possible that he was a pupil of Barrett. Appointed violin maker to the Prince of Wales. Retired 1741, although his dated labels continue up to 1748, while the shop was managed by his widow assisted by his son Peter (II) and Thomas Smith. Very fine work on Stainer model. Delicate workmanship, the wood often a little thin, but usually with very fine dark red varnish of soft texture. Cellos very desirable as concert instruments. Some small violas also known. One double bass recorded. Also one cello bow: an important relic of early English bow work and now held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford. Later work, probably executed by Peter (II) and Thomas Smith, represents a noticeable decline in finesse and quality. Some unpurfled. Manuscript label: Made Sold or Mended, by / Peter Wamsley at the Golden-Harp in Pickadilly London Printed labels; Made by Peter Wamsley / at ye Golden Harp in Pickadilly / London / 1727 Peter Wamsley / Maker at the Harp / and Hautboy in Picadilly / 17 London 51 [BVMA]