JOSEPH KNIBB, London c1685
Description:
JOSEPH KNIBB, London c1685
A fine Charles II quarter repeating spring table clock by Joseph Knibb in a small ebony case. Mounted with matching escutcheons and foliage mounts to the domed caddy supporting foliate tied carrying handle.
The 7 inch square dial is mounted with a silvered chapter ring and winged cherub head spandrels. The centre is finely matted and the typical blued steel pointers are finely pierced and faceted. The dial plate is signed by the maker beneath the chapter ring.
The two train fusée movement has a verge escapement and quarter repeating mechanism operated on a push/pull bar. The hours are sounded on a large bell and the quarters on a smaller bell .both of ‘pork-pie’ design. The backplate is engraved in the early style with tulips and leaves and again includes the maker’s signature in a crescent.
Joseph Knibb was born in 1640 in Oxford and, to begin with, he worked there with his brother John. In 1663, he was admitted to the Clockmakers’ Company and in 1668 was given his Freedom, moving to London in 1671. Joseph was one of the most celebrated makers of the 17th century and was patronised by Charles II for whom he made several fine clocks.
Clockmaker: JOSEPH KNIBB, London
Circa: 1685
Stock Number: 4072
Height: 12.25 inches (31 cm.)