Benjamin Steele, London

Description / Expertise

A fine and unusual George II period ebony veneered table clock of rare small size and proportions in a very original state of preservation.

The 8-Day movement strikes the hours on a single bell has a verge escapement, spring suspended pendulum and pull quarter repeat work on six bells. There are two subsidiary dials in the arch below the maker’s signature. On the left is the strike/silent selector and on the right is the regulation dial. Within the finely matted centre there is a dummy pendulum aperture and above VI o’clock there is an inset date.

The elaborate back plate is profusely engraved with floral and foliate scrolls, as are all the cocks and securing brackets.

The exceptional small arched case is constructed primarily in oak and veneered with beautifully mellow ebony. It has a most unusual arched top surmounted by its original ebony pad and turned brass carrying handle and the clock stands on four brass ogee bracket feet. The glazed back door also retains its original ‘rippled’ glass ogee shaped window, a feature we have not previously seen.

Unusual small bracket clocks of this quality and individuality are exceedingly rare and hard to come by.

*Benjamin Steele is recorded in Baillie's "Clockmakers of the World" Vol. 1 as working in Old Southampton Buildings, London, circa 1744.