MAKER: Henry Lane TOWN: Bristol Henry Lane is listed in A J Moore's book on Bristol Clockmakers as working in the dock area of Bristol between 1774-1837. The exact location was at 58 The Quay. Longcase examples by this maker are known both here and in Australia, but this is the only tavern clock that has come to light. Sourced in the USA, it appears the Bristol port location resulted in exports to the new world. A small, and therefore rare, black round dial in original condition with fine rectangular movement. The case is made mostly of pine as is the dial. The latter, now attached with new turned wooden pegs, is domed with a narrow edge moulding. The dial overlaps the case slightly which is the best way to attach the dial to the trunk. There is an original inspection door. The base of the case has been affected by a falling weight at some stage in the past and repaired long ago; the latter has resulted in a slightly shorter trunk.The lock is a replacement as is the escutcheon. The door is made of oak. The ears, which have the simpler profile typical of the late 18thC, are mostly original. The unrestored door section is featured in the book, "The Tavern Clock", on page 27 as a lead-in to the chapter on lacquer and chinoiserie. The lacquer work has had a light touch restoration and is now in fine stable condition. Tavern clocks are rarely found in this original condition which makes this example quite special. The rectangular plated movement is made to a high standard. It has five pillars and a 5-wheel train with a grooved winding barrel.It has been cleaned and serviced but not polished. The hands are, most likely, replacements in the correct style with counter-balancing. The weight is a replacement casting made in a shallow profile to extend the run time. The lacquer & chinoiserie extend to the sides of the trunk which have foliate decoration. The signature appears on the dial as the space between the dial and the top of the door is restricted due to the small scale of the clock. Beneath the dial is a gilded scroll motif and the door has a typical chinoiserie scene. The base is also decorated. Dimensions: Dial 22inches, Overall height 41inches
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