Chinoiserie and lacquer - grandfather clocks

More correctly known as longcase clocks. A hooded pendulum clock, housed in a tall enclosed case, about seven feet high. Introduced during the latter part of the 17th century, the longcase clock has remained popular to the present day.

As a general rule, the designs of the clock cases followed the stylistic developments of the past three centuries. Late 17th and early 18th century clocks inspired the cabinetmaker to extraordinary heights in the art of marquetry inlay, very often in the complex and intricate 'seaweed' patterns. Other clocks were lacquered and decorated with gilded chinoiseries. Chippendale's designs followed the prevailing flowing lines of the Rococo, with quantities of scroll work, frets, pagodas, urns and rams' heads. Those of the Neoclassical period showed a return to simpler, straighter lines, often enhanced with panels of well-figured inlay, lines of stringing, swan-neck pediments and brass finials.

The finest clocks were often veneered in walnut or mahogany, but many country clocks made from honest oak have survived.

Until the late 18th century, most clocks had brass or silvered dials highly chased or embossed in the spandrels (that is, the corners of the clock face). During the last quarter of the century, however, the painted enamel face was introduced, and by the 1820s had gained predominance among clockmakers.

Longcase clocks built in the 18th century manner usually have fairly long cases between the hood containing the dial and mechanism and the base plinth. During the 19th century, the plinths tended to become larger and the vertical pendulum case much shorter, thus altering the proportions. Longcase clocks made during the 1830s and 1840s often look quite stubby, even though the overall height remained much the same.

Australian longcase clocks dating from the colonial period are very scarce and very expensive. The best known of the early colonial clockmakers was James Oatley, but even of his work little more than a dozen clocks are known to have survived.

If purchasing, it is important to verify that the hood, works, and dial are original to the remainder of the case. A careful check is required for the fit of all components, old screw holes, and timber additions or repairs.

'Grandfather clock' did not come into general use until the popularity of the song 'My Grandfather's Clock', written in 1878. A grandmother clock is a smaller version of a grandfather or longcase clock, usually late Victorian or 20th century.