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Sir William Henry Perkin

(1838-1907), Chemist

Sitter in 9 portraits
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.

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Sir William Henry Perkin, by Sir Arthur Stockdale Cope - NPG 1892

Sir William Henry Perkin

by Sir Arthur Stockdale Cope
oil on canvas, 1906
On display in Room 19 on Floor 2 at the National Portrait Gallery
NPG 1892

Web image not currently available

Sir William Henry Perkin

by Lafayette
half-plate nitrate negative, 15 September 1928
NPG x42772

Web image not currently available

Sir William Henry Perkin

by Lafayette
half-plate nitrate negative, 15 September 1928
NPG x42773

Web image not currently available

Sir William Henry Perkin

by Lafayette
half-plate nitrate negative, 15 September 1928
NPG x42774

Web image not currently available

Sir William Henry Perkin

by Lafayette
half-plate nitrate negative, 17 September 1928
NPG x42776

Web image not currently available

Sir William Henry Perkin

by Lafayette
half-plate nitrate negative, 17 September 1928
NPG x42777

Web image not currently available

Sir William Henry Perkin

by Lafayette
half-plate nitrate negative, 17 September 1928
NPG x42778

Web image not currently available

Sir William Henry Perkin

by Lafayette
half-plate nitrate negative, 17 September 1928
NPG x42779

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