Longcase Clock ~ SAMUEL KELLETT of BREDBURY ~ circa 1800

Samuel Kellett and his family tree are well documented by Appleby in his work "Clockmakers of Cheshire" where 2 very similar examples of his work are featured. Samuel Kellett senior, born circa 1740, hatter and clockmaker, died 1806, married Sarah Collier 25th June 1767. One of their six children, Samuel, was born 1769 and is recorded as clockmaker of Bredbury and Woodley, marrying Elizabeth Wilkinson 20th August 1789. He died in 1830 leaving 6 children. The eldest being Samuel, born 1789, was again the clockmaker of the family,marrying Fanny Axon 1817 and survived all but one of his 9 children, dying in 1852.

The 14" square painted dial has exquisitely painted spandrels of flowers, fruit and foliage within a raised gilt border, whilst exotic birds of paradise ornament the dial centre - an extra that could be specified from the dial painter at this period. Subsidiary seconds and date wheels together with twin brass winding collets complete the centre. All within a chapter ring of Roman hours and Arabic minutes, displaying the makers name and place of work at 6 o'clock. Original diamond pattern matching steel hands. An original 8 day duration, 2 train, plated movement with 4 knopped and turned pillars, incorporates rack striking to sound the hours on a bell. A particular feature of this clock is the wonderful quality inlaid mahogany case, and its excellent proportions. Typical north-west features of this period are in evidence - neat swan neck pediment, square reeded hood columns, complex mouldings uniting hood, trunk & base, and the triple arched door top with nicely moulded edge and acorn finial. The individually selected figured & book matched veneers to the trunk door and base are further enhanced with box wood stringing and geometric inlay of exotic woods - ebony, rosewood, satinwood. All serving to lift this casework well above the average. Standing 87" tall on well shaped ogee bracket feet.

This delicious quality longcase clock by a well documented, prominent Cheshire clock making family would be a welcome addition to any home!
Local delivery, setting up and 12 months guarantee on the clock movement fully inclusive in the price.