Act of Parliament" clock, ca 1760-1780

"Act of Parliament" clock, ca 1760-1780 "Act of Parliament" clocks are usually in cases that have been covered with black lacquer because it was thought they could withstand changes of temperature better than polished wood. This wood case stands 58 inches high, and has a chiseled base This case is gilt decorated with Chinese figures and chinoiserie garden scenes. The 25 inch wooden dial is painted black. Trunk of the clock is signed, "Tho.s Alderege Londini". Sides are gilt decorated on black lacquer as is the base. Case in excellent condition, probably restored 100 years ago. Ca about 1760-1780.Large brass 8 day, time only, movement, powered by a large iron weight. Mounted on a seat board like a tall clock. Brass hands are well pierced, has Arabic fine minute division, Roman numeral hour division. Long iron pendulum. Working key lock on the door. These early decorated clocks regularly sell for $10,000 or more at Cristy's, Sotheby's, and other large auction houses.