Early Naive Longcase Clock

Provincial

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c. 1715

A George I oak longcase clock with 9 1/4" square brass dial and 30-hour plated movement. Dial corners having C&W no. 8 spandrels. The dial having engraved centre, the design comprising four naive birds within loosely engraved foliage. The chapter ring having inward pointing single arrowheads. The naive quality of the engraving suggests this may be the work of the clockmaker himself and the lack of signature due to limited engraving skills or the inability to read and write. The style and period of the clock indicate that the clockmaker may well have been a quaker.

A near identical dial is illustrated in Darken & Hooper - English 30 Hour Clocks, page 111, plate 3/13. A further near identical dial is illustrated in Clocks Magazine, January 1996, volume 18 number 7, page 4.

The movement back plate has several unused holes (see photograph) which appear to be for a hook and spike variant that was made by this maker. These holes are laid out identically to the clock illustrated in Darken & Hooper.

The oak case having original hinges, superb period mouldings and a rich patina.

The movement is currently in an unrestored state, as can be seen in the photographs. It can be supplied like this, or fully conserved to suit the purchaser's requirements.

Height: 76" (193cm)

Price unrestored: £4,900

Price restored: £5,400

Click thumbnail images on left to view enlargement.