Early Victorian Mahogany Bracket Clock by Dell Bros
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1840
This bracket clock dates to the early Victorian period and is crafted from mahogany. The case design features a serpentine-shaped top adorned with a cornice and prominent carved scrolling foliage.
The sides of the case incorporate pierced wooden fret panels, and the base rests on a stepped plinth featuring additional decorative carvings. The 8-inch dial is cream-coloured, displaying black Roman numerals and a minute track, with spade-shaped steel hands. The maker's name, 'DELL BROS BRISTOL', is inscribed at the center of the dial, which is enclosed by a cast brass bezel. The timepiece is driven by an 8-day mechanical twin fusee movement that strikes on a bell.
The clock comes with its pendulum and winding keys, and the rear of the case includes a glass door to allow viewing of the movement. The clock measures 43 cm in height, 35 cm in width, and 17 cm in depth.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Bracket clock
- Maker
- DELL BROS
- Dimensions
- 43 x 35 x 17 cm
- Case material
- Mahogany
- Dial diameter
- 8 inches
- Movement type
- 8-day twin fusee
- Place recorded
- United Kingdom
- Condition status
- Serviced
- Striking mechanism
- Bell strike
- Maker / attribution
- Dell Bros
Design
- Visible features
- • Pierced wooden fretwork panels on the side of the clock case • Cast brass bezel encircling the cream-coloured dial • Carved scrolling foliage elements on the base and the upper crest
- Movement and Condition
- The timepiece functions using an 8-day mechanical twin fusee movement. The striking train produces an audible signal on a bell. The clock is supplied with its original pendulum and winding keys to support operation. The auction description reports that the clock is in very good condition, with no breakages or faults found in the wood carvings. The movement has undergone a complete service and overhaul and is reported to be in full working order. However, prospective owners are advised to inspect the condition of the pendulum suspension and the fusee chain system.
- Dial and Timekeeping Display
- The 8-inch dial is finished in a cream colour and features a traditional arrangement of black Roman numerals. A minute track is positioned along the outer edge of the dial, while the hours are indicated by black steel hands in a spade formation. The dial is signed with the maker's name, 'DELL BROS BRISTOL', situated in the center. The face is protected by a glazed door framed by a cast brass bezel, which provides a durable and decorative boundary for the dial surface.
- Case Construction and Ornamentation
- The upper crest of the clock is shaped with a serpentine form, featuring detailed carvings of scrolling foliage and an overhanging cornice. This decorative theme is mirrored at the base, which is set upon a stepped plinth with corresponding foliage carvings. The sides of the mahogany case are designed with pierced fretwork panels. Access to the interior movement is provided through a glass-paned door at the rear of the case, allowing for observation of the mechanical components.
Identification
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: Source recommends independent assessment of the pendulum suspension springs
- Research required: Source recommends independent assessment of the fusee chain or cable system