Adam & Eve Automata Longcase Clock by Stenlake of Tavistock

The 8 day duration movement striking the hours on a bell and with an arched white dial displaying a Roman chapter ring, seconds, blued steel hands and the makers names and place of work above number VI. The arch depicting in automata form the moment when Eve offers Adam the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden. Both arms move as the clock ticks. The arch is also painted with wild animals which include a lion, tiger, giraffe, an elephant and two stags. Also with churches painted to the four corners.

The richly figured flame mahogany veneered case with boxwood and ebony inlay throughout and the trunk door flanked by spiral columns with wooden capitals.  The hood also with wooden capitals, spiral columns and topped with a crested pediment with three brass finials.  The base with similar veneers and inlay and large ogee shaped feet to the front of the clock.

Note:  Automata longcase clocks are very rare and we have only had a handful of Adam & Eve examples over the years.  This particular clock has what appears to be an interesting history due to the original delivery note still pinned to the backboard of the clock.  The note reads ....Mr Robert Davidge, Beer Town, WITH CARE, to be left at the publick house, Holes Hole till called for...... The maker Benjamin Couch Stenlake is listed as working in the Market Place, Tavistock in 1849.