A Fine English mahogany longcase clock, W. Ward London, circa 1770
Description
8-day movement with hour striking on bell, fine mahogany case with pagoda top.
The brass dial is signed William Wrad London and has an applied silvered chapter ring with Roman numerals. Besides the seperate seconds hand there is a hand in the arch for turning the striking on or off. The corners and arch is adourned by foliate pierced brass spandrels.
The weight driven movement needs to be wound once a week (8-day). The hours are fully struck on a bell.
The case is a fine example of furniture craftmanship and made of well figured mahogany of fine colour. The hood is of the the ‘pagoda’ type and is surmounted by three ball finials. Above the breack arch moulding there is foliate pierced frets to let the sound of the bell through. The straight trunk and long door add to the chic appearance.
Contrary to the Dutch, the English remained much more austere in their designs of Longcase clocks. The beauty of fine wood and well balanced design have a timeless quality that still fits in any interior today. A good timekeeper in a fine case would be an asset to any home.
