Longcase Clock ~ THOMAS FRENCH of KIBWORTH, circa 1835

Thomas French is listed in Brian Loomes Watchmakers and Clockmakers of the World, working in Kibworth Harcourt in 1835 and is also mentioned in John Daniell's Leicestershire Museums Directory of Clockmakers being listed in Pigot's National Commercial Directory of 1835. The interesting 12"square painted dial has Roman numerals and a semi-circular calendar aperture. The geometrically decorated spandrels are centred by a medallion of flowers and foliage. The dial centre depicting a contemporary ‘man-o-war' at full sail. A rope driven 30 hour plated movement with outside count wheel, strikes the hours on a bell. The oak case trimmed with exotic imported woods, very much the vogue at the that time, stands just 80" tall. The hood has a shallow swan neck pediment with brass paterae, centred by a mahogany and rosewood frieze outlined with box wood stringing. The mahogany trim around the glazed hood door is repeated on the trunk door with a conforming panel below. Good moulding joins trunk to base, which is again double cross banded to form a central panel. All standing well on shaped bracket feet. A nice, pleasantly proportioned cottage clock with the added interest of its local origins. Priced at £2750 to include local delivery, setting up and 12 months guarantee on the clock movement.