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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Table or bracket clock

Table or bracket clock with calendar by Daniel Delander

Partially verified

This table or bracket clock features a case constructed of oak veneered with walnut and burl walnut, incorporating stained wooden moldings and brass fittings. The dial is composed of gilded and silvered brass. The timepiece is attributed to the London-based clockmaker Daniel Delander (1678–1733). The clock incorporates a calendar function within its dial arrangement. It is currently held within the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art as accession number 1974.28.94. The overall dimensions of the object are approximately 22 1/4 by 14 1/2 by 8 1/4 inches. The movement is constructed of brass and steel. The signature "Dan Delander LONDON" is engraved on the dial and prominently featured on the backplate, which exhibits detailed foliate engraving surrounding the maker's name. The clock stands on a plinth base and is surmounted by a brass carrying handle.

Front view of the table clock showing the dial with calendar apertures and the walnut veneered case.
Front view of the table clock showing the dial with calendar apertures and the walnut veneered case. — The Metropolitan Museum of Art — Bequest of Irwin Untermyer, 1973. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
orbiscollectibles.com
Category
Clock · Table or bracket clock
Maker / attribution
Daniel Delander
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
1974.28.94
Source-reported date
probably ca. 1720
Source-reported place
British

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

Construction and Materials

The clock is housed in a wooden case consisting of oak primary structure, which is finished with veneers of walnut and burl walnut. The decorative scheme is completed by the application of stained wooden moldings and various brass fittings, including a handle on the top for transport.

The dial is constructed of gilded and silvered brass. The overall dimensions of the completed object are recorded as 22 1/4 by 14 1/2 by 8 1/4 inches, providing a substantial form for a table-mounted timepiece.

Evidence for this section
  • “Case: walnut, oak veneered with walnut and burl walnut; stained wooden moldings; and brass fittings”
  • “Overall: 22 1/4 × 14 1/2 × 8 1/4 in. (56.5 × 36.8 × 21 cm)”

Movement and Dial Details

The internal mechanics of the clock are comprised of brass and steel components. The dial face provides timekeeping and calendar functions, utilizing two subsidiary dials positioned above the main chapter ring.

The backplate of the movement is decorated with elaborate foliate engravings. Central to this decorative field is a depiction of two putti holding a crown above the maker's signature and location.

Evidence for this section
  • “Movement: brass and steel”
  • “Dial: gilded and silvered brass”

Signatures and Attribution

The object is attributed to the British clockmaker Daniel Delander, who lived from 1678 to 1733. The clock is inscribed with his name and location on both the front dial and the engraved backplate of the movement.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art identifies the object within its collection under the accession number 1974.28.94. The dating of the piece is generally placed at approximately 1720, though sources treat this as a probable estimation.

Evidence for this section
  • “Clockmaker: Daniel Delander (British, 1678–1733)”
  • “The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds this object as 1974.28.94”
  • “probably ca. 1720”

Open research questions

  • What specific calendar mechanism is employed behind the main dial?
  • Does the existing backplate engraving match other confirmed works by Daniel Delander from this period?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Table or bracket clock with calendar by Daniel Delander
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerDaniel Delander“Daniel Delander”
Dateprobably ca. 1720“probably ca. 1720”
MaterialsWalnut, oak, burl walnut, brass, steel“Case: walnut, oak veneered with walnut and burl walnut; stained wooden moldings; and brass fittings; Dial: gilded and silvered brass; Movement: brass and steel”
Dimensions22 1/4 x 14 1/2 x 8 1/4 in.“Overall: 22 1/4 × 14 1/2 × 8 1/4 in. (56.5 × 36.8 × 21 cm)”
Accession Number1974.28.94“1974.28.94”
OriginBritish, London“British, London”

Visible details

  • Case features burl walnut veneers
  • Dial includes two subsidiary dials above the center
  • Carrying handle mounted to the top of the case

Research qualifications

  • Date is assigned with the qualifier 'probably'
  • Attribution to Delander is based on signature

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

Consulted source

Table or bracket clock with calendar, Daniel Delander, probably ca. 1720

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record c3fc6de9e4

Terms in this record

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

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