Longcase Painted Dials: Their History and Restoration

Here, for the first time, is a book dealing exclusively with the history and restoration methods of the longcase painted dial. The result of nearly twenty years concentrated restoration work by the author, this book has a generous selection of illustrations from her personal photographic library. It covers one hundred years (1770-1870) of a stylistically unique form of art originally developed in Britain, including examples which range from the truly sublime to the utterly ridiculous. Many of the clocks have been lovingly cared for and passed down through several generations. Others have not been so fortunate, suffering from the inevitable deterioration resulting from neglect and/or ignorance. The practical section on restoration includes much sought after and invaluable advice on dial problems plus a discussion of the differing methods and types of materials used. This book is essential reading for anyone with a longcase painted dial and for all those interested in the restoration and history of this fascinating art.