A small English brass striking lantern clock, Thomas Stivers London, circa 1750.

Description

Lantern clock

At the end of the third quarter of the seventeenth century, the production of lantern clocks increased tremendously. This greater production enabled some craftsmen to specialise in making certain parts, such as dials, hands, and bells. This division of labour increased production and quality at a lower cost. On the other hand, it led to uniformity in appearance and size. English clocks with deviating proportions are therefore rare and sought after. Besides this, one can state that small clocks are rare because they would usually be a second or third clock purchased for a household. A first clock would be for living quarters, large enough to be visible to all. Since clocks were expensive, not many could afford more than one. Often, small lantern clocks lack striking, as they were intended for the sleeping quarters. The fact that this small clock has striking work not only makes it rarer but also enhances its splendour with its pleasant sound.

chapter ring

The 10-cm arched brass dial has an applied silvered and engraved chapter ring with Roman chapters and Arabic five-minute indication. The pierced hands are made of blued steel. The corners are embellished with cast brass Rococo spandrels. There are similar spandrels in the arch next to the annular silvered signature plaque inscribed Tho.s Stivers London.

Verge escapement

The movement is driven by a weight on an ‘endless rope’ and is of thirty hour duration. It has verge scapement in combination with a short fixed pendulum. The clock strikes the hours on a bell by means of a countwheel. The top and bottom plate of the movement are connected by four well turned pillars.

frets

The clock is surmounted by a bell cross with a central urn final which is supported by four further urn finials. To the sides are foliate pierced and engraved frets above the doors giving access to the movement. The clock is suspended on the wall by a hoop and spurs.