An inlaid cherry case tall clock, crafted in or near Concord, New Hampshire, with a distinct nautical theme, perfect for a sea lover. 223153.
The traditional-looking form is constructed of woods found locally in the Concord, New Hampshire, region. The primary wood is cherry, and the secondary is New England white pine. The line inlays are likely holly, and the accent wood is mahogany. The two inlaid ovals, one in the base and one in the waist door are a combination of woods. The cabinetmaker most likely purchased these decorative conch shell-themed inlays from an inlay specialist. This case has been appropriately refinished. The pleasing color and the warm tones are excellent and showcase the natural structure of the wood graining.
This fine example stands up on a bracket base. The four feet are nicely formed and retain excellent height. A drop apron hangs below the base panel. It is separated from the base section by a line of mahogany banding. The base panel is framed with a line inlay pattern with ovolo corners. An inlaid oval featuring a large conch shell is centered on the panel. The waist section features a rectangular-shaped waist door trimmed with applied molding. Through this door, one can gain access to the interior of the case and the components, including the two drive weights and the brass-faced pendulum bob. The waist door is inlaid with the same design found in the base panel. Additional inlay patterns are displayed in the blocks that support the quarter columns. The inlay pattern used here is more complex. The inset quarter columns are fluted and terminate in brass quarter capitals. The bonnet or hood is surmounted with a pierced-and-open fretwork pattern. Three-line inlaid finial plinths support the pierced frets and the brass ball-and-spike finials. The molded arch is supported by smoothly turned and fluted bonnet columns. These are free-standing and mounted in brass capitals. They flank the arched bonnet-glazed door. Rectangular-shaped side lights are located on both sides of the hood.
The painted iron dial is an English product and is mounted to the movement with a false plate. This dial features a nautical theme. Multiple conch shells are depicted in the lunette. The four spandrel areas are decorated with geometric themes. The Traditional time ring used small Arabic-style numerals at the quarter-hour positions. A dotted minute ring separates them from the Arabic hour numerals. A subsidiary seconds dial is located just below the hour 12. The calendar is positioned below the center arbor. The hour and minute hands are a traditional design.
The clockworks are constructed in brass and are of good quality. Four turned brass pillars support the two brass plates. Hardened steel shafts support the polished steel pinions, brass gearing, and recoil escapement. The winding drums are grooved. The weight-driven movement is designed to run for eight days on a full wind. It is a two-train or a time-and-strike design, having a rack and snail striking system. As a result, it will strike each hour on the hour on a cast iron bell mounted above the movement. The works are mounted on a seat-board.
This impressive clock stands approximately 88.5 inches or 7 feet 4.5 inches tall to the top of the center finial. When measured at the upper hood molding, this case is 20.75 inches wide and 10.5 inches deep, making it a striking yet manageable addition to any space.
This handsome clock, crafted in the early 19th century, dates back to 1805. Its historical significance adds an intriguing aspect to its charm.
Inventory number 223153.
