Month duration walnut longcase clock by Charles Cabrier, c. 1730

Dealer description — P A Oxley

A unique and spectacular early 18th century Month duration walnut longcase clock by this famous maker. This clock was a former finalist in the 2012 Country Life LAPADA Object of the Year. The substantial Month duration 5 pillar movement with the rare use of a Dutch striking mechanism. Striking the main hours on a large bell and the forthcoming hour on a smaller bell at half past. The high quality movement with a delicately made recoil anchor escapement, well turned pillars and large brass plates. The full brass dial with an unusual dial layout featuring Atlas/Father Time sitting on a large silvered brass cartouche engraved with the makers name and place of work. The dial also with a separate silvered brass chapter ring, well matted centre, seconds, date, finely cut blued steel hands and four brass Putti, two on clouds holding torches and the others sitting on eagles. The extremely elegant and impressive Anglo French burr walnut veneered case with the rare use of a bevelled mirror to the trunk door, brass mouldings throughout and a plain base with a double plinth terminating in flat bun feet. The hood with barley twist pillars mounted with large brass Doric capitals and an impressive caddy top with elaborate mirror backed walnut frets to the front and sides and finished with an architectural pediment. The hood also surmounted with solid walnut finials standing on brass supports. Note: Charles Cabrier II is listed as a famous maker and was apprenticed to his Father, also named Charles Cabrier, in 1717. He obtained his freedom in 1726 and was Master of the Clockmakers Company in 1757. The Cabriers were well known Huguenot Clockmakers who settled in London in the late 17th century when they were driven from France as a result of Religious persecution. The Cabriers were particularly fine Watchmakers and many examples of their work can be seen in Museums around the world including London and Oxford. Provenance: This clock was until recently, standing in a Chateau in the South West corner of France, approximately 50 miles north of Bordeaux. Chateau Cantenac Brown was and still is a famous Vineyard. This explains the French influence displayed in the case features and also the French connection with Charles Cabrier. However we believe this clock in its entirety was made in London for a special European client. Maker Charles Cabrier of London