Walnut longcase clock by Lewis, Wincanton, c. 1750

Dealer description — P A Oxley

A rare provincial walnut longcase clock by this prolific and well known Somerset Clockmaker The 8 day duration movement with five pillars, recoil anchor escapement and the hourly strike on a bell using the rack striking method. The rare 11" square brass dial features a silvered brass chapter ring engraved with Roman numberals, Arabic minutes and fleur de lys. The matted centre has a silvered brass seconds ring and a square date aperture with engraved flowers and foliage. Also with blued steel hands which are typical of the period. The chapter ring is signed to the base of the chapter ring Richard Lewis, Wincanton. Gilt brass spandrels are displayed in each corner. The veneered walnut case is of exceptional quality for the period and County of Somerset. The cabinetwork during this period and area was mostly made from solid oak. Featuring crossbanded veneers and mouldings throughout the cabinetwork. This style was extensively used on all forms of furniture at this stage of the 17th century. Along with fugured walnut veneer to both the trunk door and base. The sides of the case are also veneered with wallnut. The flat top hood is framed with brass Doric capitals to the soild walnut pillars. Also with quarter pillars to the rear. The movement has been fully overhauled and serviced in recent years. Once purchased a further Service will be carried out and the movement will be guaranteed for 3 years. A very desirable and collectable longcase clock. Note: Richard Lewis was a well known Clockmaker in the town of Wincanton. He was also a Goldsmith, Silversmith and Watchmaker. In 1756 he attended the local town clock at 21 shillings per annum. Provincial walnut veneered longcase clocks are rare. They were more commonly seen in London around this period and earlier. The smaller dial size is also very unusual, giving the whole clock a very elegant and slim stature. Maker Lewis of Wincanton