C.1760, Stephen Rimbault, London, Musical Automaton Dial, 3-fusee bracket clock.
This clock plays a lively and pleasant tune on the hour, using 15 hammers on 7 bells, all the while two waiters crossing the "room" above to serve bread to seated master and lady of the house. The painted scene shows fine detail, but is dark from age and dirt, and possibly merits advice from a painting conservator. The ebonized case retains original bracket feet, gilt caryatids to the corners and pineapple finials at top. Occasionally the hour strike begins before the music, to be interrupted and resume following the tune. The Rimbault family rank amongst the finest of London makers in the 18th Century, and this three train movement is well made with original crown/verge escapement and attractively engraved backplate. For reference, see Derek Roberts' Mystery Novelty and Fantasy Clocks, (1999), page 206, showing a similar clock. Height 21.5" Reserve $20,000
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