An unsigned tiger birch case tall clock of New England origin that is decorated with inlays. 28152.
This well-proportioned New England tall clock boasts strong tiger-birch graining that resembles the striping found in a tiger's fur. The wood selections used on the case's front are wonderfully figured, enhancing these grain patterns with a modern shellac finish and a warm, inviting color. In addition, the case is decorated with line inlays, adding to its unique charm.
This case stands on applied bracket feet mounted to the bottom of the base. A thin line of light wood is inlaid along the interior edge of the base panel. Centered here is an inlaid oval of mahogany veneer. A rectangular-shaped waist door is centered in the waist section of the case. This door is framed with applied molding and is also lined with inlaid. The door provides access to the interior of the case, where the weights and pendulum occupy their space. The front corners of the waist incorporate inset quarter columns. These are fluted and terminate in brass-mounted quarter capitals. Below the columns are inlaid plinths. On top of the molded arched bonnet is an open fretwork pattern. The three-line inlaid capped chimney plinths each support one of three brass ball and spike finials. Free-standing fluted bonnet columns visually support the arch. They are mounted into brass capitals and flank the arched door. This door is lined inlaid with a delicate maple stringing and is fitted with glass.
The iron dial is decoratively painted. The four spandrel areas feature colorful floral themes. Centered in the lunette is a red-breasted robin perched on a branch. The time is displayed via steel-formed hands on a traditional time track. Arabic five-minute markers are separated from the larger Roman-style hour numerals by a dotted minute ring. Within the time track are the subsidiary seconds and a calendar for the day of the month.
The weight-driven movement is constructed in brass and designed to run for eight days on a full wind. It is a two-train design that strikes each hour on a bell mounted above the works. Steel shafts support the brass gearing between the plates, smoothly turned winding arbors, and a recoil escapement. The mechanism is powered by two weights raised by winding the clock through the dial with a crank key.
This clock was made circa 1800. We have owned a number of clocks that share the pleasing proportions exhibited in this case. Many of these were signed by Clockmakers who worked in Central Massachusetts.
It is a very manageable size, measuring approximately 7 feet 7 inches tall to the top of the center finial. This size makes it a perfect fit for a variety of spaces, from grand foyers to cozy living rooms, adding a touch of elegance and history to any room.
Inventory number 28152.
