Clock · Bracket clock
This bracket clock was produced by the clockmaker John Fordham in 1755. The object is recorded as being of British origin, specifically associated with Coggeshall. Constructed from mahogany, the clock measures approximately 10 by 5 by 3.75 inches (25.4 by 12.7 by 9.5 cm). The item is currently held by The Metropolitan Museum of Art as object number 64.101.869. The dial incorporates a silvered chapter ring with Roman numerals and a central textured area, with a circular plate above featuring the maker's signature and location. The clock represents a specific specimen from the museum's collection, donated by Irwin Untermyer in 1964.
Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.
The clock is housed in a mahogany case featuring elaborate decorative carvings.
The dial assembly includes a central textured brass surface surrounded by a silvered chapter ring, which is marked with standard Roman numerals for the hours. A circular, engraved plate is positioned within the arch above the dial, explicitly stating the maker's name and location of origin, Coggeshall.
The rear view of the clock reveals the movement assembly, secured within the mahogany housing. A circular backplate is centrally mounted, showing signs of wear consistent with its age.
The signature is clearly incised on the circular plate located directly above the primary clock face. It reads 'J. Fordham' followed by 'Coggeshall' on the line below, identifying the maker and his operational base as reported by the institution.
The object is held by The Metropolitan Museum of Art under the accession number 64.101.869. It entered the collection as part of a donation by Irwin Untermyer in 1964. The documentation provided confirms the materials used and the dimensions of the specific museum specimen.
As a catalogued museum object, the records identify it as a bracket clock dated to 1755. The museum serves as the primary source for the attribution and dating, noting the manufacturer's active period in Coggeshall.
| Field | Source-reported value | Source quotation |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | John Fordham | “Clockmaker: John Fordham (British, active Coggeshall)” |
| Material | Mahogany | “Mahogany” |
| Dimensions | 10 × 5 × 3 3/4 in. | “Overall: 10 × 5 × 3 3/4 in. (25.4 × 12.7 × 9.5 cm)” |
| Museum Number | 64.101.869 | “64.101.869” |
| Provenance | Gift of Irwin Untermyer | “Gift of Irwin Untermyer, 1964” |
Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.
Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.
