- 77
Ellicott: a magnificent large gilt-mounted ebonised turntable musical clock, London, circa 1765
Description
- 81.5cm. 32in. high
Literature
Condition
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
Catalogue Note
John Ellicott, one of the most famous 18th century English clockmakers, was born in 1706 and succeeded his clockmaker father who died in 1733. He worked at 17 Sweetings Alley, Royal Exchange , London between 1728 and 1772, the year of his death. In 1738 he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society and served as a Councillor for three years. Later he became clockmaker to King George III and made many fine and unusual clocks; he is probably best known for the invention of a compensated pendulum in which the bob is raised or lowered, by means of levers, to counteract the expansion or contraction of the rod.
John Ellicott took his son Edward into partnership in 1760 and the clocks made after this time were signed Ellicott with no forename until circa 1769 when the signature was changed to John Ellicott & Son.