Archibald Knox

Keith Carpenter, London
Christie's London, Liberty & Co: Including the Collection of the Late Keith Carpenter, September 24, 2003, lot 155
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Victor Arwas, Liberty Style, Tokyo, 1983, p. 128, no. p. 10 
Adrian J. Tilbrook, The Designs of Archibald Knox for Liberty & Co., 2000, p. 113, no. 95 
Stephen A. Martin, "Great Clocks by Archibald Knox," Style 1900, vol. 13, no. 3, Spring/Summer 2000, front cover and pp. 24-37 (for a discussion of the model)
Stephen A. Martin, Archibald Knox, London, 2001, pp. 71-75 (for a discussion of the model) and p. 236

Overall in good condition. When viewed in person, the pewter surface presents with an elegant modeling and deep color which is enhanced by the vivid and nuanced abalone insets on the clock face and sides. The surfaces with light soiling and minor remnants of polish residue. The pewter surfaces with minor rubbing and light surface scratches consistent with age and gentle use. The arms appear to be original and they present with minor surface scratches and minor bending consistent with age and gentle use.The abalone displays a diverse palette of jeweled tones hues and is in good condition with minor irregularities inherent in the design. The circular back plate is slightly bent around the edge as a result of gentle use. The movement impressed SR/FA. The movement is not guaranteed to run at the time of the cataloguing and was not tested for accuracy of time and may need service at the buyer’s discretion. With one key. A very important work in Knox’s artistic career that displays great scale and exceptional presence when viewed in person. -----
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The great clocks are those few Tudric pewter timepieces that are clearly intended to dominate space both by scale and austerity of design. With this example, perhaps most beautiful of his great clocks, Knox weaves together the various ancient influences of his Manx heritage, the Neolithic, Celtic, Christian and Viking influences with what was to be is design future,  Modernism. Additionally, this strikingly modern design eschews the languid and sinuous character of Art Nouveau for the grounded power of the rectangle, alluding to works by Knox's contemporaries such as Mackintosh or artists of the Wiener Werstätte.

Sotheby's would like to thank Dr. Stephen A. Martin for his assistance in cataloguing this lot.