Jason Clarke Antiques

Description

For sale, a George III Period Brass Sundial by Benjamin Cockings of Bridgewater.

Comprised of an eight-inch brass dial with Arabic numeral divisions, an incredibly unusual design feature for the period. The inner arc is further engraved with degrees subdivisions radiating in a solar pattern from the front edge of the gnomon.

The latter two thirds of the dial are reserved for the maker’s name, B. Cockings, Bridgewater Fecit.

Above the name is further inscribed the wonderful Latin phrase “Ab Hoc Memento Pendit Eternitas” translating to mean something akin to:

“Eternity depends on this memory” or “from this memory hangs eternity”.

To the right side is engraved the latitude of 51, 10.

The sundial retains its original gnomon incised with filigree patterns to its arc. A wonderfully executed example with a really pleasing design from a highly skilled regional maker.

Sadly, little is known of the maker Benjamin Cockings apart from his obvious place of residence in Bridgewater, Somerset. The Bridgewater Heritage Group suggests that he was known to have maintained turret clocks in the area. A wall hanging alarm clock is housed in the Blake Museum at Bridgewater and it is interesting to note the similarities in the numeral design work.

Circa 1800