Stock Code: 2247 - SOLD
Description: A superb George II figured walnut longcase clock by one of the most eminent partnerships of the Georgian period, Benjamin Gray & Justin Vulliamy.
The elegantly proportioned Tompionesque case veneered with highly figured walnut of fine colour and good patination. Standing on a double plinth, the case rises to a caddy top with three giltwood ball finials.
The five pillar movement, with twelve inch square brass dial mounted with well-cast urn spandrels, a silvered chapter ring, matted brass centre and a large subsidiary seconds dial, a particular feature of Gray & Vulliamy clocks of this period. Above six o'clock is an aperture to view the day of the month and there is a silvered cartouche signed by the makers and applied to the matted centre.
The high quality bespoke movement has eight day duration with rack strike and sounding the hours on a bell.
The clock is complete with apparently the original steel rod pendulum with large bob and calibrated rating nut beneath and a pair of brass cased weights which again appear to be original.
Further Information: Justin Vulliamy arrived in London from Switzerland c1730. He married Benjamin Gray's daughter and in 1743 he joined his father-in-law in partnership in Gray's already well-established business in St James's Street before moving to Pall Mall in 1752. Gray was appointed Clockmaker to George II in 1744. The partnership developed a great reputation as innovative makers of fine clocks and watches. The Royal association was maintained by the Vulliamy family until the mid-nineteenth century.
Condition: Excellent. The movement has been fully overhauled and serviced. Minor restorations to the case, the plinth original, restorations to parts of the caddy.
Country of Origin: England
Origin/Age: English, George II, circa 1745
Provenance: Private collection Cambridge. This clock has been with the same family for over 60 years.
Maker: Benjamin Gray & Justin Vulliamy
Signed: Benj. Gray Just. Vulliamy, London
Dimensions: Height 97.00 inches (246.38cm) Width 20.00 inches (50.80cm) Depth 10.00 inches (25.40cm)