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Lot Essay
COMPARATIVE LITERATURE:
D. Roberts, British Skeleton Clocks, Woodbridge, 1987, p. 65, fig. 2/23 and p. 148, fig.; F.B. Royer-Collard, Skeleton Clocks, London, 1969, p. 5, fig. 1-3.
The distinctive champlevé chapter ring of this clock may be seen on a striking Westminster clock by Evans illustrated in Roberts, fig. 2/21. Most quarter-chiming Westminster Abbey skeleton have their bells positioned between the towers. For examples see Roberts, Royer-Collard, lot 133 and a clock sold in the R.O. Schmitt Collection at Christie's New York, 17 June 2005, lot 24 ($36,000). The present example is apparently unique for having its bells in the towers, ensuring the clock more accurately reflects the profile of the actual Abbey. Possibly it was made as a prototype or as a special commission.
D. Roberts, British Skeleton Clocks, Woodbridge, 1987, p. 65, fig. 2/23 and p. 148, fig.; F.B. Royer-Collard, Skeleton Clocks, London, 1969, p. 5, fig. 1-3.
The distinctive champlevé chapter ring of this clock may be seen on a striking Westminster clock by Evans illustrated in Roberts, fig. 2/21. Most quarter-chiming Westminster Abbey skeleton have their bells positioned between the towers. For examples see Roberts, Royer-Collard, lot 133 and a clock sold in the R.O. Schmitt Collection at Christie's New York, 17 June 2005, lot 24 ($36,000). The present example is apparently unique for having its bells in the towers, ensuring the clock more accurately reflects the profile of the actual Abbey. Possibly it was made as a prototype or as a special commission.