An exceptional gilt lacquer repeating table clock of rare small size by Devereaux Bowley, London, circa 1750. 223016.
Mid-18th-century lacquered cased miniature repeating table clocks are a rarity in the marketplace. This example is the first we have owned in 55 years in business. It could be considered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to purchase such a clock.
Devereaux Bowley is a listed master clockmaker born in 1696 and died in 1773. He resided at 54 Lombard Street, London, working from 1718-72. Bowley was a well-known maker of chiming and repeating bracket clocks. Author G. H. Ballie listed Devereaux Bowley (Bowly) as a master in 1759. He apprenticed to William Tomlinson.
The inverted bell top case is stunning, with color combinations of yellow, red, black, and gold. It features five different scenes on the front and back of the case. Each side of the cabinet has a break arch cut out with gilded pierced fretwork, backed with a cloth to emit the clock's sound. The case retains its original brass carrying handle on top.
The elegant black and cream japanned case feature an inverted bell top surmounted by a knopped brass carrying handle. The lacquer work is in fine condition and has a beautiful mellow color. Some color combinations include yellow, green, red, black, and gold. Numerous panels, including scenes, are incorporated into the design. Several scenes depict classical figures dressed in robes, angles, and olive trees. The scene panels are bordered with patterns of gilt latticework. The case sides feature break arch cutouts. These are fitted with pierced fretwork of a complex design that is backed with a cloth. The front of the case opens as a door to access the dial. The mat board that frames the dial is also decoratively painted.
The 3 3/8 inch brass composite dial has a name boss located in the arch signed "Bowly / London." An applied brass lacy pattern surrounds the boss. Gilt brass cherub head spandrels frame the dial corners. The silvered chapter ring with Arabic five-minute markers, a close divided minute ring, and Roman-style hours. The center of the dial is matted. This location also includes an inset date aperture below the hour XII. Both steel-formed hands are in excellent condition and are most likely original to this clock.
The fully restored single fusee movement features a crown and verge escapement with a pear-shaped pendulum bob. Its elaborate backplate is finely engraved with a basket of flowers surrounded by flowing vines. The babcock is also decorated with engravings. The spring-powered drive for the clock's repeat function is mounted to the top right corner of the backplate. Pulling the repeat cord on the case's right side, one winds the striking train. Release the cord, and the clock will first announce the hour on the largest bell. It will then report the quarter hours on a nest of three bells mounted above the works. The first quarter is represented by three individual hammers striking the three bells once. The second quarter would have the first sequence repeated twice. This progressive format continues through the quarters. Please note that this clock will only strike when the cord is pulled. The advantage of this system is that the owner could reach over during the night and strike the clock to tell the approximate time. In addition, one would not need to fumble with matches to light the candle and read the dial.
This diminutive clock case measures approximately 10.5 inches tall, with the brass handle in the upright position. Measured at the feet, it is 6 inches wide and 5.5 inches deep. This clock was made circa 1750.
Inventory number 223016.
