ARTWORKS

Sir William Henry Perkin

Arthur Stockdale Cope (1857–1940)

National Portrait Gallery, London

Sir William Henry Perkin

Image credit: National Portrait Gallery, London

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In 1856, while still a student at the Royal College of Chemistry, Perkin discovered a process for creating the first ever coal-tar dye, a purple, later to be named 'mauve'. This discovery, and Perkin's continued research into the dying process, eventually led to the displacement of natural by artificial or synthetic dyestuffs in the textile industry. In 1870 Perkin opened a plant for the manufacture of a synthetic alizarin, which replaced the widely used red dye, derived from the madder plant. His contribution to science and industry was recognised internationally during his lifetime, receiving nine honorary degrees, and knighthood and several medals of achievement.

National Portrait Gallery, London

London

Read more on National Portrait Gallery, London
Title

Sir William Henry Perkin

Date

1906

Medium

oil on canvas

Measurements

H 124.5 x W 92.7 cm

Accession number

1892

Acquisition method

Given by Memorial Committee, 1921

Work type

Painting

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National Portrait Gallery, London

St Martin’s Place, London, Greater London WC2H 0HE England

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Artist or maker

Arthur Stockdale Cope

1857–1940

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