Object Description
An impressive antique sundial pairing a mid 19th century gothic style stone pedestal by Austin and Seeley (unsigned) circa 1840, with a 20th century steel armillary sphere.
A focal point for any garden, this sundial offers a beautiful blend of antique and modern, perfect for instilling a courtyard or patio with history and interest.
This gothic style pedestal appears in Austin & Seeley’s catalogue dated 1841 (pictured). Here it is described as a ‘Rich Gothic Font, designed from Henry VII’s Chapel’ of Westminster Abbey, London. The drawing also appears in an advertisement from The Civil Engineers and Architects Journal 1839 (pictured), suggesting that this stone pedestal could date from even earlier.
Austin and Seeley works were rarely stamped with makers marks.
Austin & Seeley
In 1828, Felix Austin established his own independent stone works at New Road, London, manufacturing a range of statuary and artificial stone after purchasing the moulds of one of Eleanor Coade’s competitors.
After much success, he partnered with John Seeley in 1840, becoming one of the leaders in the architectural and garden ornament industry.
Austin and Seeley supplied sculptural garden items to many historical houses and gardens across the country including a commission from Queen Victoria and Prince Albert for the grounds of Osborne House, Isle of Wight.
After Austin’s death in 1850, Seeley continued trading until the company ceased around 1870 following Seeley’s death.
Additional Dimensions
Sundial diameter: 82 cm (32.28 in)
Base diameter top: 53 cm (20.86 in)
Base diameter bottom: 43 cm 16.92 in)
We have another similar sundial available.
Image 1 source: An extract from ‘Select specimens of Austin & Seeley’s works in artificial stone: manufactory, New Road, Regent’s Park’ (1841): Rich Gothic Font designed from Henry VII’s chapel.
Image 2 source: Advertisement in The Civil Engineer & Architect’s Journal (1839) titled ‘Collection of Ornaments at Austin’s Artificial Stone Works, New Road, Regent’s Park, London’: No. 81 – Enriched Font or Pedestal.