An impressive long case clock with brass composite dial signed "Anthony Janszen / Amsterdam." It is very unusual to find a tall case clock from this period that is signed, numbered, and dated by the clockmaker. This example is. 213005.

This time, strike and alarm movement is brass, has an eight-day duration, and is of excellent quality. It features the traditional Dutch striking system. As a result, this clock strikes the hour on the hour on a large bell. On the half-hour, it will strike the coming hour on a smaller bell. This movement also features an alarm mechanism mounted to the movement's side. You wind this by pulling on a cord that raises a small weight inside the case. When set, it will strike or sound an alarm on a bell. The alarm is set from the disk at the front of the dial around the hour pipe. While removing the hour pipe bridge, our repairman discovered that it was engraved with the Maker's initials "A.J." and is dated and numbered "1766 / N.89." Janszen is a listed Maker. This date aligns with the clock's form and his listed working dates.

The case exhibits excellent burl walnut veneers that cover the entire oak substructure. The walnut has been refinished and now exhibits a wonderful mellow tone that enhances the appearance of the burl wood grain. This long case is nicely proportioned and features several interesting construction details typically found on clocks made in Amsterdam during this period of clockmaking. The case proudly stands on four turned feet that are finished in ebony. These are applied to the bottom of the base and moldings. The base incorporates bold moldings in its design, which is three-dimensionally formed. The corners are nicely built out and add a decorative aspect to the form. This construction is sometimes called a mock bombe'. This detail transitions nicely into the waist section. 

The waist of this case is long and narrow. The corners canted, getting their cue from the base panel. This detail accentuates the narrow proportions of this pleasing form. A large waist door is located in the center of this section. It is designed with an interesting shape at the top and bottom of the panel. The outer edge is nicely trimmed with an applied half-round molding. The top features an applied carved detail. The center of this door is cut open and fitted with glass. Through this window, one can see the brass-covered pendulum bob. One can visually tell that the clock is operational if the bob is in motion. It also lets the viewer know that this clock has a long pendulum rod due to the distance of the bob from the dial. This window is framed with a brass decoration that features a rococo-style framing. A maiden sits atop a bull. Her outstretched hand is holding a wreath. This frame is heavily cast and of good quality.

The fanciful, arched molding at the bonnet's top is nicely formed. The blind frets are wonderfully executed and are backed in a sand-colored silk cloth. This detail allows the sound of the bells to resonate more easily from the inside of the case when the clock is striking. The bonnet door is arched at the top and is fitted with clear glass. Turned smooth bonnet columns terminate in brass capitals. These are applied to the bonnet door. The applied caddy top and the three period figural finials are surmounting this case. The center one depicts Atlas. He is supporting the Universe on his shoulders.

The brass composite dial is skillfully engraved and features applied brass rococo spandrels and silvered rings. The chapter ring displays the hours and minutes. A subsidiary seconds dial is located below the hour XII. Below is the day of the week calendar, including the associated Zodiac sign. In the lunette is the lunar calendar or moon phase mechanism. Please note the delicate engraving in the arch surrounding this feature and an engraved center mat. The Maker's name, as well as his working location, is engraved into the lower portion of the chapter ring. 

This clock was made circa 1766. This clock proudly stands approximately 9 feet 4 inches tall to the top of the center finial. 

Anthony Janszen is a listed Maker. He was born in 1730 and was at work from 1750 through 1800. He is also listed in the register as one of the most important shopkeepers in Amsterdam in 1767. He is described as a watchmaker located on the corner of Haarlemmerdijk and the Korte Prinsengracht. 

Inventory number 27141.