Mid-Victorian skeleton clock with passing strike
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1860
This skeleton clock is a mid-Victorian timekeeping instrument manufactured circa 1860. The clock is constructed with substantial cut brass plates featuring an open, fretwork Cathedral-style design that exposes the internal movement.
It includes a silvered, engraved chapter ring with Roman numerals and blued steel hands. The movement incorporates a passing strike mechanism, which is designed to sound a single bell on the hour. The entire clock is mounted on an oval, polished ebonised wooden base and is enclosed within its original glass dome for display and protection. The clock stands at a height of 17 ½ inches, or 44 cm. It is sourced from a private collection in the United Kingdom.
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
- Date
- circa 1860
- Type
- Skeleton clock
- Height
- 17.5 inches
- Provenance
- Private collection, UK
- Movement mechanism
- Passing strike
Design
- Case and Display
- The clock is designed for display on a table or mantel. The movement is supported by feet attached to an oval-shaped, polished ebonised wooden base, which provides a stable platform for the clock assembly. To protect the movement and maintain its condition, the clock is accompanied by its original glass dome. The dome covers the entire clock, including the dial, movement, and the strike bell, allowing for visibility while shielding the mechanism from external elements. The ebonised finish of the base complements the brass materials of the clock.
- Visible features
- • Silvered chapter ring with Roman numerals • Blued steel hands • Polished ebonised oval wooden base • Original glass dome cover
- Provenance and Condition
- The clock is documented as having originated from a private collection in the United Kingdom. The current presentation includes the original protective glass dome and base, which are identified as original to the piece.
- Movement and Strike Mechanism
- The clock is powered by a mechanical movement contained within the exposed architecture of the skeleton frame. The design allows for full visibility of the gear train and plates. A passing strike mechanism is integrated into the clock, configured to sound a single strike on the hour. The bell is positioned atop the upper assembly of the movement to project its tone. The hands are fashioned from blued steel, contrasting with the brass components and the silvered chapter ring.
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 identity of the clockmaker remains unstated
- Research required: The specific origin of manufacture is not explicitly attributed to a country, though styled Victorian