Chinoiserie Grandfather Clock
A chinoiserie grandfather clock brings painted lacquer and brass dial work together, offering striking vertical presence and period decoration.
Chinoiserie Grandfather Clock
A chinoiserie grandfather clock is a tall floor-standing timepiece housed in a decorated case, most frequently found here from the 18th Century and the Georgian period. These pieces present elaborate painted scenes on tall wooden trunks, combining horology with decorative art.
The selection ranges from early Georgian examples to later revival pieces from the 19th Century, 1920 and 1930. Buyers encounter both full-size longcase clocks and smaller grandmother clock variations.
Makers such as John Fielder of Alton, William Kipling London, Wise of Reading, Gardner of London, Robert Berry, and Issac Nickals Wells appear in the record. These horological works demonstrate the intersection of British clockmaking and Asian-inspired decorative schemes.
Materials and Construction
The construction relies on wood cabinets finished with lacquer, japanned wood, and green or blue lacquer. Artisans applied layers of finish to create smooth surfaces ready for painted decoration.
Gilt, gold leaf, and brass components highlight the dials and applied ornament. Glass protects the clock face, allowing visibility of the brass movement inside.
Chinoiserie Grandfather Clock Retail Price Guide 2026
Typical asking prices for chinoiserie grandfather clock among the pieces listed under this phrase on Sellingantiques today, from the lower quarter to the upper quarter. They describe what is for sale here now, not the wider market.
Materials recorded include brass, glass, lacquer, wood, japanned wood, gilt, and gold leaf.
Evaluating Quality and Finish
Quality rests in the execution of the lacquered and chinoiserie decorated surfaces, where depth of colour and detail in the painted figures elevate the piece. The preservation of the original green, blue, or dark lacquer distinguishes superior examples.
The integration of the brass movement within the tall case defines the mechanical standard. Signed dials by recorded makers add provenance and historical weight to the clock.
John Fielder of Alton·William Kipling London·Wise of Reading·Gardner of London·Robert Berry·Issac Nickals Wells
The Chinoiserie Grandfather Clock Glossary
- Japanned Wood
- European furniture finished with a glossy resin paint mimicking Asian lacquer. This technique involved layered varnishes and decorative motifs.
- Longcase Clock
- A tall pendulum clock enclosed in a wooden case standing directly on the floor. These timepieces house weight-driven movements.
- Grandmother Clock
- A smaller version of the longcase clock, typically produced in the 20th Century. They occupy less floor space while retaining traditional proportions.
- Automaton
- A mechanical feature built into the clock face that moves independently. Examples include rocking figures such as Father Time.
Chinoiserie Grandfather Clock: Frequently Asked Questions
What is a chinoiserie grandfather clock?
A chinoiserie grandfather clock is a tall floor-standing timepiece featuring a decorated lacquered wooden case. These items combine functional timekeeping with elaborate painted scenes inspired by Asian design.
Such pieces date predominantly from the 18th Century and Georgian eras, though revival examples exist from later decades.
How do I identify an 18th century clock?
Eighteenth century examples display traditional proportions, brass movements, and hand-painted japanned or lacquered surfaces. Details like signed brass dials help confirm the period of origin.
Examining the construction of the wooden case reveals the age and manufacturing methods characteristic of the Georgian era.
Where were these clocks made?
British clockmakers produced these pieces, often working in London or regional towns such as Alton, Reading, Wells, and Edinburgh. They fitted imported or domestic movements into locally constructed cabinets.
Specialist decorators then applied the lacquer and gilt artwork to the wood surfaces.
What is the difference between a grandfather and grandmother clock?
Grandfather clocks are full-size tall case clocks standing well over six feet high. Grandmother clocks are scaled-down versions produced in smaller dimensions.
Both utilise similar weight-driven or spring-driven mechanisms within a tall vertical housing.
How do I care for a lacquered clock case?
Maintain the lacquer and gilt surfaces by keeping the clock away from direct sunlight and fluctuating temperatures. Dust gently with a soft dry cloth.
Avoid chemical polishes that can damage the delicate painted and gilded decoration.