Charles John Wilkinson
Violin maker
(1889 – 1961)
Violinist-turned-maker, who carried out restorations for and sold instruments through J.&A. Beare Ltd in London for four decades. After an injury sustained in the First World War, Wilkinson lost much of the use of his left wrist. By using a T-shaped splint he was able to learn making and became a good copyist. He is said to have never used his name on a label or a brand, although some of his instruments bear a label 'John Wilkinson, London, 19__' later inserted by Beare for sale purposes. He also occasionally used a fictitious label: 'Gennaro Lanari fecit Napoli anno 19__'.
He is said to have made over 900 instruments, including many violas. His son, John, also worked for Beares.
Price History
- The auction record for this maker is $11,800 in Oct 2014, for a viola.
- 36 auction price results.
View all auction prices for Charles John Wilkinson
