English ebony bracket clock attributed to Ahasuerus Fromanteel
Recently discovered, English ebony bracket clock attributed to Ahasuerus Fromanteel, designed For Napoleon’s 1801 Exposition, was sold for amazing £692,000 ($1.1 million) two days ago at Bonhams, New Bond Street, as part of its sale of Fine Clocks and Watches. Lost for two centuries, this impressive clock was discovered in a private European clock collection in mid-May of this year.
The seller remembers the clock being in the family home since at least the 1950s but does not know exactly where or when her late grandfather bought it. He was based in Paris and was a keen collector of clocks. Quite how such an important early English clock found it’s way to the continent and has remained undiscovered for over 300 years is a mystery, but such things do happen.
Other sought after lots included a fine late 17th century timepiece by Thomas Tompion, which fetched £156,000 ($250,600); and a rare 17th century Roman-striking table clock by Joseph Knibb, which made £126,000 $(202,400). In total, the sale realised £1,632,520 ($2.6 million) with 93% sold by value.
17th century timepiece by Thomas Tompion
17th century Roman striking table clock by Joseph Knibb
