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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Skeleton clock

English Rose Window Skeleton Clock by Evans of Handsworth

Partially verified

This English skeleton clock, attributed to the manufacturer Evans of Handsworth, dates to approximately 1885. The timepiece features an 8-day, 2-train fusee movement capable of striking on the hour and half-hour. Its aesthetic is defined by an intricate, pierced brass dial designed to resemble the Gothic rose window of Notre-Dame Cathedral. The architecture of the clock includes pierced brass spokes and arches, allowing for clear visibility of the fusee movement components. The clock was retailed by Louis B. Twells, whose name is inscribed on the dial. The piece stands on a wooden base with a velvet covering, measuring 19 inches in height, 14 3/4 inches in width, and 8 inches in depth. The firm of Evans of Handsworth was known for producing skeleton clocks with architecturally influenced frames and complex mechanical movements during the Victorian era.

Front view of the English rose window skeleton clock, showing the pierced dial, fusee movement, and signature of retailer Louis B. Twells.
Front view of the English rose window skeleton clock, showing the pierced dial, fusee movement, and signature of retailer Louis B. Twells. — M.S. Rau. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
rauantiques.com
Category
Clock · Skeleton clock
Maker / attribution
Evans of Handsworth
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1885
Source-reported place
England

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

Dial and Architecture

The clock features a distinctive rose window dial, which draws inspiration from the Gothic architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral. The dial plate is constructed from pierced brass, finished with fine detail to emulate the appearance of stained glass leadwork. Applied Roman numerals are positioned on the outer perimeter of the window form.

The frame supporting the movement is composed of brass spokes and arches, which are similarly pierced to maintain the open, architectural aesthetic.

Evidence for this section
  • “the intricate pierced dial mimics the Gothic style of the Cathedral's famed stained glass”
  • “Each brass spoke and arch has been meticulously pierced and finished, revealing the complex fusee movement beneath”

Movement and Function

Power for the clock is provided by an 8-day, 2-train fusee movement. This mechanism is visible through the skeletonized frame, with both the going train and striking train barrels prominent in the design.

The clock includes a striking function, configured to ring on the hour and half-hour. The strike train is coupled with a hammer mechanism located at the top of the frame, underneath a brass bell.

Evidence for this section
  • “The 8-day, 2-train fusee movement strikes on the hour and half-hour”
  • “the complex fusee movement beneath”

Retailer and Origin

The clock is identified by the source as a product of Evans of Handsworth, a manufacturer based in Birmingham.

Retail presence for this specific piece is attributed to Louis B. Twells, who operated in Ashbourne. The retailer's name is engraved directly onto the dial plate at the base of the rose window structure.

Evidence for this section
  • “Evans of Handsworth established themselves as premier manufacturers of skeleton clocks”
  • “The clock was retailed by Louis B. Twells of Ashbourne.”

Open research questions

  • What specific archival records confirm the production of this model by Evans of Handsworth?
  • Are there variations of this rose window design associated with other retailers?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for English Rose Window Skeleton Clock by Evans of Handsworth
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerEvans of Handsworth“Created by the celebrated firm Evans of Handsworth”
RetailerLouis B. Twells of Ashbourne“The clock was retailed by Louis B. Twells of Ashbourne.”
Datingcirca 1885“Circa 1885”
Movement8-day, 2-train fusee“The 8-day, 2-train fusee movement”
Dimensions19" high x 14 3/4" wide x 8" deep“19" high x 14 3/4" wide x 8" deep”
StrikingStrikes on the hour and half-hour“strikes on the hour and half-hour”

Visible details

  • Pierced metal rose window dial with Roman numerals
  • Two fusee barrels visible in the frame
  • Striking hammer positioned beneath the bell
  • Louis B. Twells, Ashbourne signature on dial

Research qualifications

  • The exact provenance history beyond the retailer is not provided
  • Attribution to Evans of Handsworth is based on the source's assertion

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

Consulted source

ساعت اسکلتون پنجره گل‌سرخ؛ ایوانز

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 16727e6419

Terms in this record

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

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