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Longcase
clock made by Richard FRANCIS of Attleburgh in Norfolk
~ circa 1790
Richard Francis, born 1749, is a well documented clock maker
from Attleborough / Attleburgh in Norfolk. An example of his
work is in the Brideswell Museum. He took as apprentices,
John Gudgeon in 1776 for 7 years for a fee of £20, James Woods
1783 for 7 years & £10, and Joseph Warren in 1806 for 7 years
for a fee of £40. He became a freeholder in 1791 & was buried
in Attleborough churchyard in 1819 aged 70. His eldest son,
Francis 1782-1830 continued the business on his fathers death.
Another son, Richard, also worked as a clockmaker & postmaster
in Wymondham from 1828-47.
A charming period one painted dial has Roman numerals for
the hours & Arabic minutes, a subsidiary seconds dial above
twin winding holes & semi circular date aperture below. Original
non matching steel hands. The arch decorated with gilt scroll
work centred by a floral spray. The spandrels of typical Wilson
design with gilt dot and dash borders encompassing vermilion
roses & cherries.
The 8 day plated movement with four turned & knopped pillars
is rack striking & sounds the hours on a bell.
Oak case work of nice grain & good colour has the typical
features one would expect from the Norfolk area. The single
dimension "whale tail" crest to the arched hood with distinctive
carved lozenge decoration below, corresponding arch topped
trunk door, simple mouldings uniting trunk to base & the shorter
than wide base with east/west timbers, are all typical regional
characteristics. Standing 7' tall on a swept plinth with bracket
feet.
Altogether a graceful Georgian longcase clock surviving in
lovely condition with made in Norfolk stamped all over it!
Local delivery, setting up and 12 months guarantee on the
clock movement is included in the price of £5650.
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