A late George III oak 30-hour longcase clock, possibly Deaco...

Estimate

£200 - £300

A late George III oak 30-hour longcase clock, possibly Deacon (John?) of Barton in the Beans, the hood with fret carved broken triangular pediment and brass finial over turned columns enclosing a painted 12" dial, indistinctly signed, with date aperture, rose painted centre and shell painted spandrels, the knopped four pillar movement with anchor escapement and countwheel striking on a bell, the trunk with triangular arched crossbanded door over a crossbanded plinth base and bracket feet, 208 cm high From the estate of the late William John Thornton (1937-2025), of Groby, Leicestershire. Known as 'John' to his friends and family, he became interested in steam engines from an early age, and then traction engines and aircraft, before building an extensive knowledge and collection of clocks, notably early Lantern clocks and longcases. He was a very keen member of the Antiquarian Horological Society, and gave several lectures to their members at Keble College, Oxford. John was also a member of the Furniture Society in Groby village, and the Groby allotment Society, being chairman of the latter for over 30 years. The seat board has been replaced.