Aaron Willard Jr. of Boston, Massachusetts. A wood-paneled timepiece. 221216.
This is a fine Federal Massachusetts improved timepiece or "Banjo clock" made by Aaron Willard Jr. of Boston, Massachusetts, circa 1825.
The case is constructed in mahogany and features half-round mahogany frames fitted with veneered wooden panels. A full-figured carved wooden eagle finial is mounted to the top of the case on a shaped plinth. The eagle is finished in gilt. Decoratively formed brass sidearms are fitted to the sides of the case. The cast brass bezel is fitted with glass. The bezel opens to a painted iron dial. The dial is signed "Aaron Willard Jr. / Boston." The time-only weight-driven movement is designed to run for eight days on a full wind. It is brass construction and excellent quality. The lead weight is original to this clock.
This clock is approximately 36 inches long to the top of the finial.
This Boston-made timepiece was made circa 1825.
Inventory number 221216.
Aaron Willard Jr. was born in Roxbury, Massachusetts, on June 29, 1783. He had the good fortune of being born into America's leading clockmaking family. His father, Aaron, and uncle Simon had recently moved from the rural community of Grafton and began a productive career manufacturing high-quality clocks in this new ideal location. Based on the traditions of the day, it is thought that Aaron Jr. probably learned the skill of clockmaking from his family. We have owned a large number of wall timepieces or more commonly called banjo clocks, that this talented maker made. Based on the numbers seen in the marketplace, it is logical to assume he was one of the most prolific makers of this form. We have also owned a fair number of tall case clocks, Massachusetts shelf clocks, and gallery clocks. Aaron Jr. retired from clockmaking sometime around 1850 and moved to Newton, Massachusetts. He died on May 2, 1864
