John Gains of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Dwarf Clock standing only 42 inches tall.
This rare New Hampshire Dwarf clock was made by John Gains of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and stands only 42 inches tall.
This an extraordinary clock. This Sheraton form is very unusual and an important example. The distinct case form and proportions is eye-catching. The mahogany case features a cross-banded dial door and a book-matched lower panel. The kidney-shaped dial is signed within a gilt flourish, "John Gains, / Portsmouth / NH." Four urn-shaped finals rest atop turned and reeded legs. The brass movement is of eight-day duration.
John Gains was born in 1775 in New Hampshire. In 1797, he opened his first of at least five shops in Portsmouth. Gains took out an ad in the local paper to inform the public that he was open for business. He also stated that he spent a year in Philadelphia with Mr. Clark, who trained him to be a “Master of his business.” In 1853, John Gains died. We have owned tall clocks and a Massachusetts shelf / dwarf clock form made by this Maker.
