Please find below the full press release outlining my work creating the unique barometer originally made by Daniel Delander.
Antique expert reproduces one-of-a-kind Daniel Delander barometer
Following his pioneering work to create the first ever replica of John Harrison’s oldest clock (circa 1713), antiques specialist Matthew King has now recreated the unique and iconic barometer built by the esteemed 18th century London clockmaker, Daniel Delander.
The Delander barometer combines science with decorative art, an instrument for measuring atmospheric pressure to help predict weather conditions, in a spectacular and opulent case. The replica that Matthew has created is an authentic representation of the sadly disappeared original, which was the only one of its type to have been made.
Matthew worked on this commission in his Surrey-workshop, and it took several years to fully complete. Committed to following the historic crafts processes familiar to Delander in the 18th Century, Matthew took all his direction from the two single images he had of the original to keep at as true to the original as possible.
“It is important to me that cultural heritage such as this rare barometer is preserved for future generations,” said Matthew King, director of Time Traveller Clocks. “Conserving an object is often a challenge, however replicating a completely lost object is a considerably trickier proposition!”
The barometer comprises both wooden structures adorned with ebony veneers, silver inlay and mounts. All the mounts needed to be designed and modelled before moulds could be made to then allow the mounts to be cast, so Matthew’s calculations needed to be precise for this. The two Corinthian column capitals are built from three separate castings to create the open and delicate details of scrolls and acanthus leaves.
The replica was created for a client who had seen the original barometer in a magazine and been previously impressed by Matthew’s achievements.
“The craftsmanship of this barometer is so wonderful,” said the Time Traveller Clocks client. “The proportions are perfect, the drama of ebony contrasting with silver is striking, and the appearance is so like one of Delander's pieces. Matthew’s devotion to finalise this complex restoration is extremely impressive.
“The piece is in pride of place on the wall, and I love to check the level every morning to predict the upcoming weather. Historical accuracy, attention to detail and excellent communication are hallmarks of any Time Traveller Clocks project.”
“I’m extremely pleased with the finished barometer and delighted to hear about the pleasure it is giving the new owner,” said Matthew. “Despite my decades of working with clocks and furniture pieces, the learning never stops! Passing on skills and knowledge is something I seek to do in my work. Creating this barometer replica is my way of restoring those traditional methods for future clockmakers.”
Matthew has over three decades of experience working on period clock cases and important furniture pieces, and a wealth of expert contacts that he works with to complete large projects like the Harrison clock replica and the Delander barometer. He is currently working on an additional barometer replica in his workshop which is available to order.
For more information, please get in touch.
Photography: Brian Pierce Photography