Henry Terry of Plymouth, Connecticut. A Connecticut Banjo clock. VV-39.

This decorative and very colorful clock is often called or referred to as a “Connecticut banjo clock.” It is a very unusual form. The case is mahogany and has been refinished. The color is excellent. The case is designed in three sections, all fitted with doors. The base section features a reverse-painted tablet. This tablet has been professionally repainted and is done so in outstanding color and skill. Through this door, one can access the weights and pendulum bob. The waist section is also hinged. The frame is fitted with a panel that is veneered in mahogany. This I believe to be original to this clock. The upper door is fitted with clear glass. Through this, one can access the painted 9-inch dial. This dial is made of wood and is colorfully painted. Gilt decorations help frame the floral patterns. Roman-style hour figures mark the hours. The movement is constructed in wood. This wooden geared movement is weight-driven and is designed to run for 30 hours on a full wind. It will strike the hour on a bell mounted below the movement’s backboard. 

This very unusual form is designed to hang on the wall. This is worth noting because very few clock forms made in Connecticut in the 1820s through 1840s were designed to do so. Even fewer had wooden geared movements. 

Over the years we have owned several examples. One of which retained Henry Terry’s label. Almost all of them have had some level of paint loss or completely repainted tablets. This is a very decorative example of a rare form. It is approximately 33.75 inches long, 13.75 inches wide at the base and 4.5 inches deep. 

This clock was made circa 1835.

Inventory number VV-39.