English Rose Window Skeleton Clock by Evans of Handsworth
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1885
This English skeleton clock, attributed to the manufacturer Evans of Handsworth, dates to approximately 1885. The timepiece features an 8-day, 2-train fusee movement capable of striking on the hour and half-hour.
Its aesthetic is defined by an intricate, pierced brass dial designed to resemble the Gothic rose window of Notre-Dame Cathedral. The architecture of the clock includes pierced brass spokes and arches, allowing for clear visibility of the fusee movement components. The clock was retailed by Louis B. Twells, whose name is inscribed on the dial. The piece stands on a wooden base with a velvet covering, measuring 19 inches in height, 14 3/4 inches in width, and 8 inches in depth.
The firm of Evans of Handsworth was known for producing skeleton clocks with architecturally influenced frames and complex mechanical movements during the Victorian era.
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
- Skeleton clock
- Maker
- Evans of Handsworth
- Dating
- circa 1885
- Movement
- 8-day, 2-train fusee
- Retailer
- Louis B. Twells of Ashbourne
- Striking
- Strikes on the hour and half-hour
- Dimensions
- 19" high x 14 3/4" wide x 8" deep
- Place recorded
- England
- Maker / attribution
- Evans of Handsworth
Design
- Visible features
- • Pierced metal rose window dial with Roman numerals • Two fusee barrels visible in the frame • Striking hammer positioned beneath the bell • Louis B. Twells, Ashbourne signature on dial
- Retailer and Origin
- The clock is identified by the source as a product of Evans of Handsworth, a manufacturer based in Birmingham. Retail presence for this specific piece is attributed to Louis B. Twells, who operated in Ashbourne. The retailer's name is engraved directly onto the dial plate at the base of the rose window structure.
- Dial and Architecture
- The clock features a distinctive rose window dial, which draws inspiration from the Gothic architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral. The dial plate is constructed from pierced brass, finished with fine detail to emulate the appearance of stained glass leadwork. Applied Roman numerals are positioned on the outer perimeter of the window form. The frame supporting the movement is composed of brass spokes and arches, which are similarly pierced to maintain the open, architectural aesthetic.
- Movement and Function
- Power for the clock is provided by an 8-day, 2-train fusee movement. This mechanism is visible through the skeletonized frame, with both the going train and striking train barrels prominent in the design. The clock includes a striking function, configured to ring on the hour and half-hour. The strike train is coupled with a hammer mechanism located at the top of the frame, underneath a brass bell.
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: The exact provenance history beyond the retailer is not provided
- Research required: Attribution to Evans of Handsworth is based on the source's assertion