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A short detailed video is available to view of this clock running.
Please copy and paste this link:
https://youtu.be/skZsTmiJ0y0
A fine and scarce arabesque marquetry Longcase clock C.1695
The 11 inch dial-plate with foliate engraving and foliate winged cherub spandrels, silvered chapter ring signed J.Windmills (Joseph) London, matted centre with subsidiary seconds dial, ringed winding holes and date aperture, the movement with six fully latched, knopped and ringed pillars*, anchor escapement, striking on a single bell, the case with caddied top above a panel of foliate fretwork and turned hood pilasters, the rectangular trunk door inset with a lenticle, the sides divided into panels, the base on replacement small bun feet, inlaid throughout with arabesque marquetry, the base and door incorporating some 16 birds and lions and spirits.
Without doubt this is one of the finest cases on the market today.
Inside the trunk door is a very early script which reads:
“ Here my master bids me stand,
And mark the time with faithful hand,
What is his will is my delight,
To tell the hours by day, by night.
Master, be wise, and learn of me,
To serve thy God as I serve thee.”
It is noted that John Berridge, an Anglican evangelical revivalist and hymnist [1716-1793] the Vicar of Everton had the very same script inside his marquetry clock which one could possibly tie in with the mysterious marquetry spiritual creatures to the door?
This fine longcase clock is offered complete with its original brass cased weights and pendulum
* It was quite common for expensive clocks with multiple pillars to become victim of a scoundrel repairer pilfering the odd one as the brass was so expensive. Subsequently two pillars (centre) have been removed over the years on this clock.