TUPMAN, Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London c1825
Description:
A fine, small and exceedingly rare rosewood Mantel Clock with gilded, engine turned dial and back wind. The case veneered with beautifully figured rosewood with shallow chamfer top and standing on wood pad feet has gilded sight rings to both front and back, although, since this clock has the rare feature of winding from the back, only the back opens. Gilded brass mouldings are fitted to both side windows.
The dial with delicate engine turning and retaining its original gilding has elegantly proportioned, blued steel hands with pierced tips. The chapter ring has Roman numerals and the signature Tupman London on a small, slightly raised plaque below VI. It is interesting to note how the absence of winding holes vastly improves the appearance of the dial.
The movement of 8 days duration is remarkable in that both the going and the striking trains are driven off one large barrel. Lever escapement with plain balance and hour and half hour strike on a coiled gong with Strike/Silent and hand set lever on the backplate. The full signature as above is engraved below the winding arbor.
The Tupman family, well known as makers of both clocks and watches, were in business in London from 1775 to 1824 but the standard reference works provide little information on business addresses. However, an examination of the Proceedings of the Old Bailey for 15th September 1825 (where he gave evidence following a theft from the shop) reveals that James Jeremiah Tupman kept a shop and house in the Parish of St George, Bloomsbury.
Clockmaker: TUPMAN, Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, London
Circa: 1825
Stock Number: 3923
Height: 7.75 inches (19.70 cm.)