Clockwise has dated this Georgian Mahogany Longcase Clock to the Georgian era.
The quality of the cabinet is particularly noteworthy, complementing the superbly decorated dial to striking effect.
The case stands on elegant bracket feet and features an exceptionally attractive trunk, flanked by inset spiral quarter columns. These are echoed by matching full spiral columns to either side of the hood door, which retains its lock, and each column is surmounted by brass capitals. A sound fretwork panel to either side completes the architectural character of the splendidly inlaid hood.
The long trunk door is extensively decorated with further inlay and marquetry, while the similarly embellished base adds to the impressive overall presentation.
The 14-inch painted dial is a particular highlight. The spandrels depict scenes representing the four countries of the United Kingdom, while the painted arch depicts the welcome of Bonnie Prince Charlie to Scotland, providing an evocative Scottish historical theme. The dial retains both a subsidiary seconds dial and a working date aperture, together with its original stamped and pierced matching brass hands. The maker’s name appears to the lower portion of the dial.
The clock is powered by an eight-day movement with anchor escapement and rack striking, sounding the hours on a pleasingly sonorous bell. The movement has recently been overhauled and fitted with new lines and is offered with a three-year guarantee. It is accompanied by its original painted pendulum and crank key.
The Maker — Thomas Kennedy
Thomas Kennedy (1797–1874) was a native of Argyllshire who settled in Kilmarnock in 1824, establishing himself as a watch and clockmaker before also becoming renowned as a gunmaker. His Portland Street premises became a well-known attraction in Kilmarnock, with his “Albert Arms” and “Gold Gun” attracting considerable attention. His rifles were highly regarded both in Britain and India, where they commanded a strong reputation and substantial prices.
Kennedy was also an inventor and engineer. He devoted considerable attention to the development of a highly accurate water meter, ultimately producing the patented mechanism known as Kennedy’s Water Meter, which achieved international use.
This remarkable combination of horological craftsmanship, engineering ingenuity and industrial achievement makes a longcase clock bearing Kennedy’s name particularly appealing to collectors of Scottish clocks and scientific instruments. With its impressive scale, superb flame mahogany case, extensive decorative inlay and marquetry, highly attractive painted dial and distinguished maker, this is an unusually characterful example of Scottish Georgian clockmaking.
Delivery is available.
Clockwise specialises in longcase and bracket clocks and with clients from the world of business, film, sport, royalty and aristocracy - yet more than happy with traditional clients - Clockwise has an unrivalled reputation for excellence and superb service.
Clockwise has dated this Georgian Mahogany Longcase Clock to the Georgian era.
The cotswolds leading antique clock dealer and restorer
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Scottish Georgian Longcase Clock, Stunning, Famous Maker
