ARCHIBALD KNOX | A Unique "Tudric" Clock, Model No. 095

Morgan Strickland Decorative Arts, London
Acquired from the above by the present owner

see following lot for literature relating to a larger version of this model This example will be published in Dr. Stephen Martin's forthcoming publication on Archibald Knox and is the only known example in this size.

Overall in very good condition. The pewter surfaces with very minor fine surface scratches and tarnish consistent with age and gentle handling. The abalone inlay is richly variegated with a wide saturated spectrum chromatic hues. Traces of polish residue to the recessed areas. Bases of the hands with minor areas of brass revealed, not visually distracting. The rear lower edge with an area of rubbing, 2 ¼ inches long. Area directly surrounding access door with minor shallow indentations and areas of rubbing. No key included. Functionality of the movement is not guaranteed and it could need service at the buyer's discretion. The only known example executed in this size, this proto-modernist rectilinear form is the smaller and equally powerful version to lot 167.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Exceedingly rare, this deceptively simple rectangular clock is one of Knox’s most modern designs.  By constructing the front with a three-part design consisting of a narrow panel flanked by two wider ones, Knox balances the vertical thrust of the body with design elements that draw the eye outward.  In so doing he achieves a resting monumentality with precise rectilinear areas that is characteristic of the essence of modernism.  In this clock can be seen echoes of other great modernist clock designs such as the standing clock designed for the Willow Tea Rooms by C. R. Mackintosh and in early clock designs by Josef Hoffmann and his colleagues at the Wiener Werkstätte; all employed the square, the rectangle and the vertical to achieve their modernist effects.  In comparison to those examples that have more sharply conceived dials, by chasing the numerals on the lustrous metal itself, Knox lends a human softness to this singular work of abstraction.  It is a historically significant aesthetic bridge between Knox and other great early modernist designers.  Offered alongside the large version, this unique variation loses nothing of its aesthetic power though it is half the size of its sibling. DR. STEPHAN A. MARTIN