THOMAS MUDGE & WILLIAM DUTTON, London c1775
Description:
A fine and rare ebonised fruitwood spring bracket clock of good mellow colour made by the most eminent partnership of the George III period. The triple pad top case with brass carrying handle surmounting the central pad stands 14½ inches (37cm) high.
The break arch brass dial is mounted with well-cast rococo spandrels, a silvered chapter ring and subsidiary ring in the arch for rise and fall regulation to the pendulum. There is a strike/silent option above twelve o’clock and the finely matted centre includes a false pendulum aperture and a small aperture above six o’clock to view the day of the month with pin adjustment to the date ring. Above this aperture is an applied silvered plaque signed by the makers, Thos Mudge & Wm Dutton.
The substantial two train chain driven fusée movement has five knopped pillars separating the plates. The escapement is spring suspended verge with rise and fall regulation. The signature is repeated to the back plate.
The clock is complete with a later contemporary bracket with pull forward drawer to house the keys.
Close examination of the movement reveals its originality. All wheels, arbours and pinions appear original and the only apparent change is the re-siting of the pendulum hold which has been moved 3/16th of an inch.
Thomas Mudge & William Dutton formed an important partnership working in Fleet Street. They benefitted from a wealthy clientele and, most significantly, the skills they attained under their tutorage of their master, George Graham.
Clockmaker: THOMAS MUDGE & WILLIAM DUTTON, London
Circa: 1775
Stock Number: 4145
Height: 14.5 inches (37 cm.)