South Eastern Massachusetts tall case clock featuring a cross-banded mahogany case. NN-71.

This cross-banded mahogany case tall clock exhibits Southeastern Massachusetts proportions. It is constructed in mahogany, mahogany veneers, and white pine is used as a secondary wood. This diminutive case measures approximately 7 feet 4 inches or 88 inches tall to the top of the center finial, 18.25 inches wide, and 9.75 inches deep. This case retains an older surface. 

This is an excellent example of a federal mahogany case tall clock. It retains a nice clean surface. The case is typically proportioned for this Southeastern Massachusetts form. It stands on applied French feet. They are nicely splayed and form a center drop apron in the lower section of the base. They are visually separated from the base section by the lower frame of the cross-banded border. This cross-banding detail is repeated in the rectangular-shaped waist door. The veneer selected for this location is a vibrant crotch pattern that is vertically positioned. The outer edge of the door is fitted with an applied molding that frames it. One would open this door in order to gain access to the inside of the case. The sides of the waist or case are fitted with finely reeded quarter columns. These terminate in brass quarter capitals. Rectangular panels are veneered under each quarter column. The bonnet features a traditional New England variant of a pierced and open fretwork design. This is supported by three reeded and capped plinths that are surmounted by three brass ball and spike finials. Fully turned and reeded bonnet columns visually support the upper bonnet molding. They are mounted in brass capitals and are free-standing. The sides of the bonnet are fitted with tombstone-shaped side lights. The arched bonnet door is fitted with glass and opens to access the colorfully painted iron dial. 

This iron dial was paint-decorated by the Boston dial manufacturers and ornamental artists Nolen & Curtis. The four spandrel areas are decorated with a floral and fruit theme. In the arch is a decorative urn. This design also incorporates gilt highlights, some of which are elevated on applied gesso. This dial also displays the hours, minutes, seconds, and calendar dates in the traditional format. 

This fine movement is constructed in brass and is of good quality. Four turned pillars support the two brass plates. Hardened steel shafts support the polished steel pinions and brass gearing. The winding drums are grooved. The escapement is designed as a recoil format. The movement is weight driven and 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. This is done on a cast iron bell which is mounted above the movement. 

This beautiful clock was made circa 1815. It stands approximately 7 feet 7 inches tall to the top of the center finial.

Inventory number NN-71.