Table clock with calendar by Joseph Antram

Technical characteristics

Date

early 18th century

Type

Bracket clock

Maker

Joseph Antram

Height

42cm

Dial Size

5 inches

Escapement

Anchor

Case material

Walnut

Place recorded

England

Striking mechanism

Rack and snail

Maker / attribution

Joseph Antram

Design

Visible features

• The dial contains a calendar aperture positioned at the lower section. • The case includes a foliate-tied brass carrying handle on the caddy top. • The backplate features detailed engraving of acanthus leaves and scrolls. • The clock has been modified from its original verge escapement to an anchor escapement.

Movement and Escapement

The clock is powered by a twin fusee movement supported by five robust knopped pillars. The mechanism is designed to strike the hours on a bell, managed through a rack and snail system. The backplate shows ornamental engraving depicting flowing scrolls, acanthus leaves, and other foliate patterns, accompanied by a signature cartouche for Joseph Antram of London. Significant technical modifications are present in the movement. While it was built originally with a verge escapement, it has subsequently been converted to an anchor escapement. This change included the introduction of a replacement pendulum and a new back cock. The current state of the movement is incomplete, with reports indicating that the fusees have lost their setup and the lines are presently detached.

Condition and Attribution

The condition report notes that the case is well-executed, with all brass mounts securely attached, although they exhibit tarnish. The veneers remain largely intact with minimal lifting. The dial is reported to be in an unrestored state, with the silvered chapter ring showing an unusual tone and minor markings observed near the winding squares. The clock is attributed to the early 18th century, though it is now married to a more contemporary case. The auction description cautions that the movement is in need of a full overhaul for reliable operation, citing spare holes in the backplate and the non-original status of the pendulum and back cock assembly as part of the conversion process.

Dial and Case Description

The clock utilizes a 5-inch brass dial featuring a silvered chapter ring with Roman numerals and Arabic five-minute markers. The design incorporates fleur-de-lys half-hour indicators and a matted central panel which includes a mock pendulum aperture and a calendar window located at the base. Cast winged cherub spandrels flank the dial, which is further decorated by a wheatear-engraved border and a strike/silent dial situated in the break arch. The case includes a caddy top decorated with applied tulip and foliage mounts, surmounted by a brass carrying handle. The exterior features glazed observation windows on the sides and a rear aperture, with the structure raised on a moulded base and four brass bun feet.

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.