This exceptional longcase clock by Edward East features a beautifully designed Walnut veneered case with a sliding hood and an overhanging cornice. The hood is supported by three-quarter and quarter barley twist columns, adorned with gilt-brass Corinthian capitals and bases. Beneath the hood is a long trunk door crafted from ‘bookmatched’ walnut veneers, framed with a half-round moulded edge. The base of the case is designed with three upright veneered panels, all resting on a plinth, combining classic elegance with striking visual appeal.
The clock’s 10-inch square brass dial is signed “Eduardus East Londini” in cursive script along the lower edge, flanked by small winged cherub head spandrels. The dial features a narrow silvered Roman chapter ring with an outer Arabic minute track and trident half-hour markers. The finely matted centre includes large subsidiary seconds dial, and the entire dial is securely mounted to the front plate by four latched dial feet.
Inside, the movement is supported by five knopped and finned pillars latched to the front plate. The clock operates with an anchor escapement, with bolt-and-shutter, maintaining power. The external countwheel strike mechanism chimes the hours on a bell, completing this elegant timepiece’s functionality.
Edward East was one of the founding members of the Clockmakers’ Company and served as Master in 1645 and again in 1652. He was appointed Clockmaker to both King Charles I and Charles II and was known for crafting high-quality watches and clocks. His timepieces were often used by the King as prizes in tennis matches, a testament to their esteemed quality. East also created night clocks, featuring revolving chapter rings with perforated numerals illuminated by a lamp to display the time. His craftsmanship was highly regarded, and he continued to influence English clockmaking throughout his life.
Serviced and guaranteed for 3 years.
Height: 76″ or 193 cm
Circa. 1685
Provenance: Private collection, UK
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measurements
Height:
193 cm
measurements
declaration
Antique Clock Company has clarified that the Stunning Walnut Longcase Clock – Edward East (LA512051) is genuinely of the period declared with the date/period of manufacture being 1685