The George Pyke Clock

The film explores the workings of the magnificent musical clock and automaton made by the royal clockmaker George Pyke in 1765. It is one of the great treasures of Temple Newsam and was comprehensively restored in 2014 and brought back into full working order for the enjoyment of our visitors. We see how the automata spring into action when the hour is struck and one of the eight popular tunes begins to play from the concealed barrel organ. Figures begin to dance, musicians to play, windmills and watermills to turn, animals chase each other and ships sail away into the horizon.

The Pyke Clock has been inspiration for the Osmondthorpe Creative Writing group, based in East Leeds, to produce poetry and prose. Their work is exhibited beside the clock at the bottom of the Oak Staircase at Temple Newsam and is also part of The Common Threads 2 Exhibition at Armley Industrial Museum from September to the end of November 2015.

With grateful thanks to both Jan Wells and Dean Hinchcliffe for their expertise in producing these films.

Transcription disclaimer
(Please note: the transcription provided for this film is a work in progress. Please let us know if you spot any errors by commenting below or emailing us at web@leeds.gov.uk)