George II Walnut Bracket Clock – John Woodman, London – Circa 1750
£9,850.00
A Small and Fine George II Walnut Bracket Clock
A particularly refined and scarce small-scale George II walnut bracket clock signed John Woodman, London, the square-arched dial measuring a mere 12 cm across — a notably diminutive format for a clock of such quality. The case, which is proportioned with admirable restraint, is enriched by the warmth of the walnut veneers without overwhelming the compact form. At just 38cm in height, it possesses a jewel-like presence, embodying the elegance associated with mid-18th century London craftsmanship.
The dial is arranged with a silvered chapter ring enclosing a finely matted centre, with a calendar aperture positioned below chapter XVV. Within the break arch sits an unusual and highly practical subsidiary dial numbered 1–12, enabling remote regulation of the pendulum. This thoughtful feature allows adjustment of the rate without recourse to the rear of the case — a refinement more often encountered in larger and more complex clocks, and seldom found in examples of this modest scale. The arrangement reflects both technical confidence and a concern for user convenience that speaks to a sophisticated clientele.
The four pillar eight-day movement is beautifully made, regulated by a verge escapement and united by substantial plates. The backplate is finely engraved with foliate scrollwork and signed John Woodman, London, reinforcing its metropolitan origin. Clocks of this reduced size were comparatively expensive to produce and survive in far smaller numbers than their standard counterparts. This example, therefore, represents not only a charming and highly collectable cabinet piece, but also an instructive illustration of London’s ability to combine mechanical ingenuity with aesthetic refinement during the reign of George II.
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