1851 Great Exhibition: Official Catalogue: Class X.: John Walker
697. WALKER, JOHN, 48 Princes Street, Leicester Square — Manufacturer.
Drawing-room clock, from a design by Mr. C. Grant; with subjects in panels embossed by Mr. G. Abbott. The case of the clock, which is electrotyped, consists of a base and a pedestal of turquoise blue glass, surmounted by figures indicating the progress made in the civilisation of this island. This is illustrated by seven subjects revolving at the base: the savage life of ancient Britons — the Roman governor introducing agriculture — the encouragement given to Flemish weavers to settle in the island — introduction of printing by Caxton — the improvement of the steam-engine by James Watt — the opening of the first railway at Liverpool — and the movement which led to the Great Exhibition. The clock shows the hours and minutes on an open dial, supported by appropriate figures. The signs of the zodiac are made to represent the months, and seven subjects, embossed in silver, facsimiles of those in the pedestal, have been grouped so as to be seen at one view.