Henry John Joy of Taunton, England. A long case clock.

This is a fine mahogany case tall clock was made by Henry John Foy of the ST. Mary's parish of Taunton, England. Henry Foy was a master clockmaker who trained at least one apprentice. His name was William Goodwin . Foy is listed as working in the last quarter of the 18thh century.

This clock is narrowly proportioned and exhibits powerful mahogany wood selections throughout its construction. These are applied to a beaded molding that transitions this design element in to the base. The base panel features an aggressive grain pattern. The panel is also decorated with an applied molding. This incorporates decorative carvings in each corner. The lower waist molding also introduces carvings into the design of the case. The waist section is long and narrow. The waist door is simply shaped at the top. It is framed or trimmed with a carved edge. The bonnet features a delicate swan neck pediment. The two arches exhibit very good height making room for a pierced fret work design. This element is supported at the corners by decorative chimneys or finial plinths. The two finials are turned and carved in the form of urns. Below this is a beaded molding. This follows the circular shape of the dial. Additional rococo carvings are applied to the front of the bonnet. The sides are fitted with windows. The cast brass circular bonnet door or bezel is fitted with glass. This is hinged and opens to a twelve inch circular dial.

This dial is brass and treated with a silver wash. The decorations are engraved into the surface. The time ring is formatted traditionally. The clock is signed by the Maker in this location. Circular dials were available in England as early as the 1780s. During this time they were always less expensive than the arch dial forms. It wasn't until the 1820's that the round dial form developed it's own following and became fashionable, particularly in London proper.

This movement is brass and is very good quality. Four post support the large brass frames. The movement is a traditional time and strike format, striking the hour on a cast iron bell.

This clock was made circa 1790 and measures approximately 7 feet 2.5 inches tall.