Bonhams 1793 : A fine and rare third quarter of the 18th century mahogany longcase clock with automata in the arch James Upjohn, London

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12 Dec 2012 14:00 GMT London, New Bond Street
Fine Clocks
Back to auction 19809

A fine and rare third quarter of the 18th century mahogany longcase clock with automata in the arch

James Upjohn, London
The pagoda hood with three ball and spire finials over stop-fluted freestanding columns, the long trunk door of good figure set on a base with applied panel and double plinth with shaped bracket, the 12 inch arched brass dial set to the arch with a painted scene taken from Aesops Fables of a lion and a fox, the lion with articulated eyes, mouth, front leg and tail, over a silvered Roman and Arabic chapter ring enclosing the polished centre with boldly engraved signature over the date aperture, the movement with anchor escapement rack striking on a bell and an intricate system of levers to activate the movement of the big cat 2.5m (8ft 2ins) high.

Sold for £6,875 inc. premium

Footnotes

The Lion and the Fox depicted are taken from Aesop's Fable, "The Lion's
Share":
A Fox entered into partnership with a Lion on the pretence of
becoming his servant. Each undertook his proper duty in
accordance with his own nature and powers. The Fox discovered
and pointed out the prey; the Lion sprang on it and seized it.
The Fox soon became jealous of the Lion carrying off the Lion's
share, and said that he would no longer find out the prey, but
would capture it on his own account. The next day he attempted
to snatch a lamb from the fold, but he fell prey to the huntsmen
and hounds.
Moral 'Don't be too greedy.'

James Upjohn worked in the City of London from 1749, first at St. Martins le Grand, then Threadneedle Street. In 1765 he moved to Lombard Street. He worked in partnership with his eldest son Francis until 1773 when James gave up a branch to him and carried on as James Upjohn & Co.

Category: Clocks and Watches / Clocks

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