David Williams of Newport, Rhode Island. A mahogany case shelf clock highlighted with inlays. 225009.
David Williams of Newport, Rhode Island, crafted this exceptional and rare Federal Massachusetts Shelf Clock, a true gem for a Rhode Island collector.
This Massachusetts Shelf Clock was made by David Williams of Newport, Rhode Island, circa 1815. The case is constructed of mahogany, mahogany veneers, maple string inlays, and New England white pine, which is used as a secondary wood. The case is standing on nicely shaped or flared French feet. This continues to form a fanciful scrolled apron. This decorative detail visual drops down off the base section. The base section is cross-banded with a wide mahogany veneered border. A delicate inlay pattern frames this section of the case. The access door in the base is formatted with a large figure maple oval framed with a delicate string inlay pattern. The bonnet features a traditional New England-style fretwork pattern. The center plinth supports a single brass urn-shaped finial. The hood door is arched glazed and opens to access the arched painted iron dial.
The painted dial is signed “David Williams / New Port.” The spandrel areas are decorated with lacy gilt themes. This theme is repeated in the arch or lunette of the dial. A colorfully painted medallion is centered in this location. The Nolen & Curtis firm most likely painted this dial in Boston. Interestingly, this firm appears to be responsible for many of the shelf clock dials used during this period, regardless of the Maker. This dial attaches directly to the movement with three dial feet.
The time-only weight-driven movement is constructed in brass and is of good quality. It is designed to run for eight days once fully wound.
David Williams made this clock circa 1815. The case has the following dimensions in inches: 37 to the top of the finial, 11 wide, and 5 deep.
We have owned a fair number of clocks made by this Rhode Island Maker. The majority of these have been tall case clocks and wall timepieces. Very few shelf clocks have been recorded.
Inventory number 225009.
David Williams was born in Rochester, Massachusetts, on March 29, 1769. His parents were John Williams (b. 1731- ) and Mary (Peckham) Williams of Middletown, RI (b. 1733-). David was a Quaker. It is not clear who trained David as a clockmaker. It is thought that he was at work in Newport by 1800. His shop was located on the corner of Duke and Queen Streets. In 1811, he moved his shop to the north side of Parade. This location was ten doors down above his old stand. This shop was most recently occupied by Zenas Fearing. In 1818, he moved again to 56 Broad Street. All the while, he must have had a retail outlet in Providence. He was one of, if not the most prolific Clockmakers in Rhode Island. We have owned many tall clocks, Massachusetts Shelf clocks, and other banjo clocks in the recent past. It is interesting to note that we know who made the banjo clock cases for Williams. A probate court record exists that indicates that John Young performed this service. David Williams died in Newport on June 29, 1823, at the age of 54.
