A Friesland wall clock with an automated soldier marching in the arch of the dial.

This very interesting example was made in the Netherlands sometime around 1850. Later features that help date this form are the position of the painted scene in the arch and the automata that is displayed above the time ring.

This case is constructed in richly grained mahogany and retains an older finish. The finish enhances the grain pattern and the warmth of the mahogany wood. The color is excellent. The hood is designed like the hood of a tall case clock. The sides of the door are decorated with simple canted corners. The door opening is fitted with glass in order to protect the dial.

The colorfully painted iron features Roman hour numerals, Arabic five minute markers and pierced brass hands of a traditional form. The four spandrel area are paint decorated with female figures. The center section is decorated with birds and florals. The scene in arch of this dial features a large manner house and large entrance pillars. Between the pillars is a soldier that is charged with guarding the entrance way. He actually moves with power provided by the motion of the pendulum. His motion is a marching motion. He is upright and moves across the opening to the other side. He then turns and returns to the other side. This is done with the help of a cam.

The movement is constructed in brass. It is designed to run thirty-hours on a wind. It is weight driven and is wound by raising the brass capped weight by pulling on the chain to its right. The movement is a posted frame design and features typically shaped Freisland style pillars and an anchor escapement. The pendulum swings inside the lower section of the case. This case is designed to protect it. The brass faced bod can be viewed through the opening, The pendulum aperture is ornately cast and is nicely themed.

This case measures approximately 40 inches in length, 9 inches deep and 14.25 inches wide. This fine example was made circa 1850. It is inventory number VV-118.