Benjamin Merriman, London. Circa 1700. A fine and rare month going marquetry longcase clock.
A fine and rare month going, marquetry longcase clock by Benjamin Merriman, London dating to around 1700.
The 12 inch square brass dial with finely matted centre, date aperture with engraved surround, gilt period corner spandrels with engraved decoration between The brass/ silvered chapter ring showing Roman hours, Arabic minutes, inner hour calibration, half hour markers. Seconds subsidiary indicator with silvered ring. Finely pierced steel hands.
The substantial month going movement with 5 knopped and finned pillars, original wheelwork with brass dome collets. Striking the hours on a bell in typical manner. Outside countwheel to regulate strike. Heavy brass-cased weights and seconds pendulum with double sided brass bob.
The case of excellent proportions having detailed Arabesque marquetry designs to the front panels. The hood with side glass windows and fretwork above the dial. Convex throat and base mouldings, the base with bun feet.
The clock is complete and fully working. The movement has been properly cleaned and serviced.
Benjamin Merriman is listed freed from the Clockmaker's Company 1682, a good 'golden age' maker.
Overall height is just under 84 inches.
Generally in very good condition for the age, the case does have some age related defects as you would expect but presents very well.