An inlaid cherry case tall clock most likely made on the Vermont side of the Connecticut River. 221224.

This nicely proportioned and inlaid cherry case tall clock has the form and construction characteristics that suggest it was made in Vermont. This case is constructed in cherry and features decorative holly wood inlay patterns and mahogany banding. The natural cherry wood color is enhanced by a shellac finish that appears to be a couple of generations in age. 

This attractive case stands on nicely shaped flared French feet. These are delicately formed and applied to the bottom of the case. The design incorporates subtly shaped returns and a double-drop apron. This apron hangs below the base panel. A narrow cross-banded border of cherry and holly string inlay frames the base. A long rectangular-shaped door is featured in the waist section. This door is framed with applied molding along its outer edge. In addition, a cross-banded framing of mahogany frames the panel's perimeter. This door provides access to the two drive weights and the brass-faced pendulum bob. Fully turned and fluted columns are inset into the corners of the waist. These terminate in brass quarter capitals. The molded arched bonnet or hood features a pierced and open fretwork pattern with three fluted plinths. Brass ball and spike finial are mounted on each plinth. Fluted bonnet columns are mounted in brass capitals, and these flank the arched bonnet door. Glass is fitted in the door. 

The painted dial is mounted directly to the movement with three dial feet. The painted design suggests that this dial is an American-made product painted by a regional artisan. Colorful floral themes decorate the four spandrel areas and the center of the arch. These are framed with designs formatted out of gesso and finished in gilt. The gesso application on the dial raises the decoration off the flat surface, thus giving it a three-dimensional quality. The time track is formatted in a traditional manner. Arabic-style five-minute markers are separated from the Roman-style hour numerals by a dotted minute circle. The calendar date and the seconds displays are in their traditional locations. The hands are steel. The pattern is not unique but is certainly very unusual and nicely detailed.

This fine movement is constructed in brass and is of good quality. Four turned pillars support the two brass plates. Non-essential areas of the plates are cut away, resulting in the conservation of brass. Hardened steel shafts support the polished steel pinions and the brass gearing. The escapement is a recoil design. The winding drums are grooved to accept the weight cord in an orderly fashion. The movement is powered by two weights and designed to run for eight days. It is a two-train or a time-and-strike design having a rack and snail striking system. As a result, it will strike a bell each hour on the hour. The cast iron bell is positioned above the movement.

This clock stands approximately 92 inches tall.

This clock was made circa 1800.

Inventory number 221224.