Longcase Clock in Marquetry Case

A lovely longcase clock in a multi-colored floral and bird motif marquetry case by one of Ahaseurus’ sons, Abraham. The lower edge of the silvered chapter ring is signed, Abraham Fromanteel. The Tudor rose engraving around the center shaft has Dutch origins and was popular on early English clocks.

Ahaseurus’ sons, John, Abraham and Ahaseurus II were active in the family clockmaking business. John and Ahaseurus II moved to The Netherlands around 1680; and it is assumed that all English clocks signed “Fromanteel” after 1680 were made by Abraham. His nephew Christopher Clarke, joined the firm, later named Clarke & Dunster. Abraham, who died in 1730 at the age of 84, was the last Fromanteel clockmaker. He left no family.