An exceptional and perhaps unique English fusee mantle clock timepiece by one of the nineteenth centuries greatest clock makers. Although not signed by Thomas Cole, this mantle or table clock can be safely attributed to Thomas Cole. The multi layed case, which is typical of Cole, the horizontal lines in the background of the engraving, and the quality of the engraving, means this clock could only be by Cole. The eight day single chain fusee movement. The engraving for the retailer has been fitted into the available space, and would have been done after the clock has been completed by Thomas Cole (J.B. Hawkins). The inset silvered dial is of typical Cole design with finely engraved rococo and floral decoration, black Roman numerals and fleur de lyes hands. This style of dial is noted on many examples of Thomas Cole clocks. The layered plate construction of the heavy case, is typical the Cole's work. The Cole Brothers worked together supplying clocks to other retails after J.F. Cole narrowly avoided bankruptcy, their work was retailed by Garrards, James McCabe, Arnold and Dent, and Hunt and Roskell, in an attempt to get the brother’s out of debt, their partnership lasted until 1848. Recently published research by J.B.Hawkins has gone into great detail on how the brothers worked together showing their unique skills and techniques that has been extremely useful in researching Cole clock. Cole was known for his exceptional designs. His creations were admired for their originality, fine metalwork, and attention to detail. Cole's work gained significant recognition, earning him awards at international exhibitions, including the Great Exhibition of 1851 and the Paris Universelle of 1855. His craftsmanship influenced other clockmakers, though none could surpass the quality of his designs. From the multi layed case to the horizonal background lines in the engraving, which is typical of Coles work, the engraving of this clock is of the highest level, and could only be by Thomas Cole. The dial is signed for the retailer, Desbois, London, and the backplate of the movement also signed, Desbois, Grays Inn Passage, London. Daniel Desbois was apprenticed to John Johnson of 9, Grays Inn Passage. He succeeded Johnson and went into partnership with Wheeler, trading as Desbois and Wheeler until 1835, taking his son, also Daniel into partnership in 1844, and moving to High Holborn before passing in 1848. His son signed his clocks Debois Jr, meaning this clock was retailed by the senior, and would have been made between 1835 and 1844, by Thomas Cole. Cole was a prolific wholesaler, selling his clocks to other clockmakers. This is a very rare model, perhaps unique. The multi layed case, horizontal background engraving and quality of the engraving work mean this clock could only be by Thomas Cole. The quality is absolutely incredible and is a real tour de force by Thomas Cole, every part of the clock has been engraved from the feet to the mounts atop the clock. Circa 1842. 29cm High by 13cm Wide and 12cm Deep Https://www.jbhawkinsantiques.com/the-hawkins-pictorial-survey-of-cole-clocks-1/