A charming George II period lacquer longcase clock of rare small size. This clock is a rare survivor with its pine case, original delicate japanning and pristine diminutive movement and dial.

The original posted birdcage 30-hour movement has an anchor escapement, a long pendulum with brass bob and period lead weight. It sounds the hours on a single bell via an outside countwheel.

The 8 ¼-inch brass dial has a well matted centre and an original pierced steel single hand. The patinated brass chapter ring has Roman hour numerals with fleur-de-lys half-hour markers and unusual gilt brass mask and scroll corner spandrels.

The hood of the small black japanned case has a bold ogee cornice moulding and plain frieze above the glazed opening door which is flanked by turned pillars. The trunk has a full length door with a faded gilt oriental garden landscape which is repeated on the base panel set above a tall plinth. The sides are similarly japanned and are decorated with floral sprays.

Date: circa 1730-1735

Height: 74 ¼ in (188.5 cm)

Width: 17 ½ in (44.5 cm)

Depth: 12 ¼ in (31 cm)

* John Worsfold is listed on page 857 of Brian Loomes’ Clockmakers of The World: 21^st Century Edition. He was working in Dorking, Surrey in the first quarter of the 18^th century and was succeeded by Thomas Worsfold, possibly his son in 1728.

HW6115