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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Component · Clock case

Wedgwood Jasperware Clock Case

Partially verified

This component is a clock case manufactured by Josiah Wedgwood and Sons in Barlaston, dated to 1997. Constructed from blue jasperware, the piece features white applied relief decorations and moulding throughout. The square-shaped body includes a circular central aperture intended for a clock insert and is topped with a semi-circular arch. The front face displays an applied relief scene depicting two putti and a dog near a tree, bordered by moulded blue decorative details consisting of leaves and dots. Additional white relief figures of putti—one holding a bird and the other a garland—are applied to the sides of the case. The reverse side retains an original quality control label. The object measures 115 mm in height and 98 mm in length,

Front view of the blue jasperware clock case showing the putti relief and circular aperture.
Front view of the blue jasperware clock case showing the putti relief and circular aperture. — V&A Wedgwood Collection. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
collections.vam.ac.uk
Category
Component · Clock case
Maker / attribution
Josiah Wedgwood and Sons
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
WE.18555-2014
Source-reported date
1997
Source-reported place
Barlaston

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 Decoration

The structure is essentially square, incorporating a rounded, semi-circular top arch. A circular aperture is cut into the center of the body, designed to receive a clock mechanism or insert.

The exterior ornamentation includes a variety of white applied reliefs. The front panel features a scene of two putti with a dog positioned before a tree. The surrounding frame of the aperture is enriched with moulded blue decorations, specifically patterns of dots and leaves. The sides of the case continue this decorative theme with further applied reliefs, with one side featuring a putto holding a bird and the other a putto with a garland.

Evidence for this section
  • “blue jasperware with white applied relief. Square shape with circular holes for clock insert, and a semi-circular top”
  • “white applied relief scene of two putti's with a dog in front of a tree. Moulded blue decoration on the front of dots and leaves”

Marks and Quality Control

The base of the object bears the manufacturer's impressed stamp. This mark indicates the maker, the country of origin, and includes specific identification codes. Additionally, the piece exhibits evidence of factory processing through pencil markings and a formal label.

The reverse side features a large, paper label that documents the internal quality control process. The label, dated April 15, 1996, lists the status as 'PASS', despite a noted imperfection.

Evidence for this section
  • “Large label on reverse.”

Provenance and Documentation

The object is part of the V&A Wedgwood Collection. Its acquisition was facilitated by the Art Fund, with significant financial contributions from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, private donations, and a public appeal.

The accession number, WE.18555-2014, officially catalogues the item within the museum's records.

Evidence for this section
  • “V&A Wedgwood Collection. Presented by Art Fund”
  • “Accession number: WE.18555-2014”

Open research questions

  • What specific type of movement or clock insert was intended for this aperture?
  • Does the 'BH' mark refer to a specific factory model or individual decorator?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Wedgwood Jasperware Clock Case
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerJosiah Wedgwood and Sons (Manufacturers)“Josiah Wedgwood and Sons (Manufacturers)”
Place of originBarlaston“Barlaston”
MaterialsJasperware“Jasperware with applied reliefs and moulding”
Dimensions115 mm x 98 mm“Height: 115 mm; Length: 98 mm”
Accession numberWE.18555-2014“WE.18555-2014”
MarksWEDGWOOD / BH / MADE IN / ENGLAND“WEDGWOOD / BH / MADE IN / ENGLAND ®”

Visible details

  • Blue jasperware body with white applied relief
  • Circular aperture for clock insert
  • Original quality control inspection label on reverse

Research qualifications

  • Label on reverse notes 'Stain on side'
  • Incomplete or illegible markings in pencil on the reverse

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

Consulted source

Clock case

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record f5688ac32b

Terms in this record

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

Other clock case records