Mahogany Longcase Clock by Matthew & Thomas Dutton No.239

Beautiful mahogany break arch case with fine mouldings and a moulded hood door flanked by fluted, reeded and canted corners. Surmounted by a four sided concave pedestal with a brass ball and flame finial. The break arch trunk door with flame veneers matches the raised panel to the base with a double plinth. 12-inch break arch brass dial with subsidiary calendar dial to the arch flanked by pierced foliate spandrels. Silvered chapter dial with large seconds dial signed “Mattw. & Thos. Dutton, London”. It also features the original blued steel hands and is numbered 239. The substantial 8-day movement with thick plates, five baluster pillars, anchor escapement and large backcock for the iron-rod pendulum with T-bar suspension and heavy lenticular brass-faced bob. Striking the hours on bell. Matthew & Thomas Dutton were the sons of William Dutton, who was a business partner with Thomas Mudge c.1765. Together, they utilised the skills attained in the Tompion and Graham era. The wealthiest members of the aristocracy patronised them as it was generally acknowledged that their designs, with the quality of their work and elegant cases. Matthew & Thomas Dutton continued the family tradition, working from No.148 Fleet Street. Serviced and guaranteed for 3 years. Provenance: Private collection – U.K.