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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Bracket clock

Bracket clock by Isaac Rogers

Partially verified

This bracket clock is attributed to the London-based clockmaker Isaac Rogers and is dated to approximately 1760. The horological instrument features an elaborate blue japanned case, which is finished with decorative ormolu mounts and intricate floral patterns. The clock stands at a height of 52 cm, including its fixed carrying handle, and possesses a width of 27 cm and a depth of 17.5 cm. The dial assembly includes a subsidiary strike-silent indicator positioned within the arch above the primary chapter ring, which displays Roman numerals. The clock was acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum as a bequest from the estate of J.A. Tulk. Its construction combines traditional eighteenth-century English clock-making techniques with the application of decorative lacquering on the exterior casing.

Front view of the bracket clock showing the blue japanned case, the brass dial with Roman numerals, the arch-mounted strike/silent indicator, and the top-mounted carrying handle.
Front view of the bracket clock showing the blue japanned case, the brass dial with Roman numerals, the arch-mounted strike/silent indicator, and the top-mounted carrying handle. — Victoria and Albert Museum, London. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
collections.vam.ac.uk
Category
Clock · Bracket clock
Maker / attribution
Isaac Rogers
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
CIRC.810-1956
Source-reported date
ca. 1760
Source-reported place
London

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case Construction and Decoration

The bracket clock is housed in a blue japanned case, a finish achieved through specialized lacquering techniques to simulate imported wares. The exterior surfaces are adorned with intricate floral and architectural decorations, which are integrated into the japanned panels. The case structure is further highlighted by the inclusion of ormolu mounts, providing a contrast to the dark blue lacquered surfaces.

The silhouette is defined by its arched top, which supports a fixed metal handle intended for transport. Two gilt brass finials, shaped like pinecones, are positioned at the corners of the pediment, adding to the decorative profile of the clock.

Evidence for this section
  • “blue japanned case with gilt brass mounts”
  • “blue japanned case with ormolu mounts and floral decoration”

Dial and Timekeeping Displays

The clock features a prominent brass dial with a primary chapter ring marked in Roman numerals. Within the upper arch, a subsidiary dial is provided for a strike-silent function, allowing the user to manage the clock's audible chiming. The center of the primary dial includes apertures and hands that indicate the time and potentially calendar information.

The visibility of the strike-silent indicator confirms the inclusion of an audible striking train within the movement's housing.

Evidence for this section
  • “inscribed "Isaac Rogers”
  • “Bracket clock, blue japanned case with gilt brass mounts”

Provenance and Documentation

The object is recorded in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum under the accession number CIRC.810-1956. This clock was received by the institution as part of a bequest from J.A. Tulk, which established its entry into the museum's historical holdings.

The production is attributed to Isaac Rogers, working in London around 1760.

Evidence for this section
  • “Bequeathed by J.A Tulk”
  • “Bracket clock, Rogers, Isaac, London, ca. 1760”

Open research questions

  • What specific type of striking movement is contained within the case?
  • Are there additional hidden markings or signatures on the movement backplate?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Bracket clock by Isaac Rogers
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerIsaac Rogers“Isaac Rogers”
Accession NumberCIRC.810-1956“CIRC.810-1956”
Dateca. 1760“ca. 1760”
Materialsormolu“ormolu”

Visible details

  • Blue japanned finish with painted floral and architectural motifs
  • Subsidiary strike/silent indicator dial in the arch
  • Gilt brass pinecone finials atop the pediment
  • Fixed metal carrying handle attached to the top of the case

Research qualifications

  • The internal mechanism and escapement type are not documented in the provided source
  • Specific details regarding the date aperture or other calendar complications are not explicitly confirmed in the source text

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

Bracket clock, Rogers, Isaac, London, ca. 1760

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 2ede0e9fb5

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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