THOMAS MAWKES of BELPER ~ circa 1825

Thomas Mawkes is recorded in Brian Loomes Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World working from 1800-1854. His family is well documented in Hughes & Craven Clockmakers & Watchmakers of Derbyshire. His father, Thomas I, 1740-1821, was apprenticed to the renowned John Whitehurst in 1754, as was his uncle John. Thomas I later worked in Derby and Chesterfield, was married to Anne and had four sons and two daughters. Thomas II, born before 1777, was the second son. He worked from King Street, Belper in 1834 and Bridge Street 1846, and was also recorded as a jeweller and iron-monger. He became a freeman of Nottingham and died 14th November 1854. His younger brother William, born 1782 was also a watch and clockmaker and succeeded his father in 1821. A clock made by Thomas is illustrated in Hughes & Craven, page 134 fig.139.

The 13" painted arch dial has a gold band encircling the Roman numerals, semi-circular calendar mouth and brass hands and is stamped on the reverse Finnemore, Birmingham (1818-1828). The spandrels are decorated with pretty roses and foliage within a pink border and the arch has a charming scene of a country estate with swans on a lake in the foreground - possibly symbolic of the many large houses to be found in the Derbyshire area. The 30 hour duration, chain driven movement with outside countwheel strikes the hour on a bell. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries Uttoxeter was a noted area for case making, with the many cabinet makers supplying a large portion of the Midlands and Northern England. Here we have a fine example of their earlier work. The slender proportions are particularly pleasing to the eye, enhanced by the use of fine mouldings, oak with mahogany cross-banding and decorative woods, together with box wood and ebony used for stringing. Nice original fine ogee feet. Standing 87" tall. Altogether a most attractive and well proportioned longcase clock in fine original condition. Priced at SOLD to include local delivery, setting up and 12 months guarantee on the clock movement.