Devonshire longcase clock by Sanderson, Exeter, c. 1750

Dealer description — P A Oxley

An excellent and desirable example of Devonshire Clockmaking. The 8 day duration 5 pillar movement strikes the hours on a bell and features a recoil anchor escapement. The 12" arched brass dial has a separate silvered brass chapter ring, matted brass centre, seconds ring and a square date aperture with an engraved surround. The makers name and place of work is engraved on a silvered brass cartouche to the centre of the dial, George Anderson of Exon. This is the Latin spelling of Exeter which is in the County of Devonshire. The dial also displays finely made and blued steel hour, minute and second hands. The spandrels to the corners are of the urn shaped pattern. To the arch you will find a silvered brass dial displaying an eagle and the words âTempus Fugitâ, the Latin inscription for âTime Fliesâ. The rare cabinet work of excellent proportions and colour is principally made from solid ash, mahogany and oak with the front elevation veneered with book matched and crossbanded ash veneer. Unusually, at this early period, solid mahogany crossbanded mouldings have been used throughout the case. The plain but well figured base stands on a single plinth. The hood features solid ash pillars with gilt Doric capitals and quarter pillars and capitals to the rear. The movement can be viewed on both sides via inspection windows to the sides of the hood. The plain broken arch top is again constructed from solid mahogany mouldings and features the original boxwood fretwork. Note: George Sanderson is listed as a Watch, Clockmaker and Jeweller. He was married in 1747. He died on 10th October 1764 in Clerkenwell, London. Formed a partnership with John Mallett of London. Whilst working in London it appears he patented watch tools and a calendar watch key. Maker Sanderson of Exeter