F Barker & Sons Rare and Collectable Garden Sundial

Beautifully ornate solid bronze large sundial of 19 inches (49cms) in diameter made by F. Barker & Sons Clerkenwell, the renowned manufacturer of precision instruments in the 1800’s. Francis Barker excelled in his work as a compass and sundial maker. What we know is in 1848, Francis established the company F Barker and Sons at 12 Clerkenwell Road, and in the same year, he began a partnership with Richard Groves also a reputed maker of sundials and maritime compasses. Although many of his work was unsigned, this large garden sundial clearly shows its provenance. A wonderful piece of history.