William Prior

PRIOR William Born 1690 Gateshead, died 1759 Newcastle, County Durham UK. Established at ‘the sign of the Musical Instrument Maker in the Side, Newcastle-upon-Tyne’ from 1723. Early labels are spelled ‘Pryor’, but in all records and labels after c.1720 the name is given as ‘Prior’. Recorded as the Assay Master in the city. Also a wood turner and maker of false teeth. His shop and contents were put up for sale in 1756. Several violins and one contralto-sized viola extant. Made in typical early English manner with ‘through-neck’, lacking a separate top block, and with bass bar carved integrally with the front. Very fine workmanship. Medium arching, very well regulated. Excellent edgework with