Lot Essay
Daniel Quare (d.1724) of Exchange Alley, London was one of the most important makers of clocks, watches, barometers and mathematical instruments of his time. Three barometers by Quare were supplied to the Royal family and now hang in Hampton Court Palace.
This barometer is an example from a group of similar form with part fluted and spiral-turned cases executed in walnut or ivory or a combination of the two. The barometers with hinged feet enclose the cistern in a square plinth and the feet fold when hung from the wall. Daniel Quare's numbering system appears to be sporadic, and only ten numbered Quare barometers have been recorded to date. This barometer numbered 7 is the lowest number recorded, presumably making this the earliest known example in the group, the highest numbered 148. Other examples of this form include one formerly in the collection of Percival D.Griffiths and currently in a private collection, illustrated in R.W. Symonds, English Furniture from Charles II to George II Barometers 1680-1860, 1977, pp. 210-211, figs. 141-143. A further example numbered 24 was sold by Christie's London, 23 November 1994, lot 118. For a full discussion on Daniel Quare, see N. Goodison, op.cit., pp. 206-221.
This barometer is in an extraordinarily fine state of presentation, retaining much of its original patination, and original tube with leather mercury bag encased in ivory.
This barometer is an example from a group of similar form with part fluted and spiral-turned cases executed in walnut or ivory or a combination of the two. The barometers with hinged feet enclose the cistern in a square plinth and the feet fold when hung from the wall. Daniel Quare's numbering system appears to be sporadic, and only ten numbered Quare barometers have been recorded to date. This barometer numbered 7 is the lowest number recorded, presumably making this the earliest known example in the group, the highest numbered 148. Other examples of this form include one formerly in the collection of Percival D.Griffiths and currently in a private collection, illustrated in R.W. Symonds, English Furniture from Charles II to George II Barometers 1680-1860, 1977, pp. 210-211, figs. 141-143. A further example numbered 24 was sold by Christie's London, 23 November 1994, lot 118. For a full discussion on Daniel Quare, see N. Goodison, op.cit., pp. 206-221.
This barometer is in an extraordinarily fine state of presentation, retaining much of its original patination, and original tube with leather mercury bag encased in ivory.