Terhune & Edwards of NYC / Chauncey Jerome of New Haven, Connecticut. A Foil Front shelf clock. 212076.

This is a very good example of a Jerome Mantel Foil Front Mantel Clock retailed by the Terhune & Edwards firm in New York City. 

The case is constructed in rosewood and retains an excellent color. This case sits on a simple base. The front of this clock opens as a door. It is hinged on the right and trimmed with a shaped molding that supports a glass panel. Behind the glass is a skillfully and decoratively engraved mask finished in a gilt wash. This mask frames the dial. The contrast is striking. The dial does not move with the door. This dial is painted. The time ring is formatted with Roman-style hour numerals. The minute ring is closed. The Jerome-style hands will indicate the time. The interior of the backboard retains a partial label of the Retailer, Terhune & Edwards. The movement is brass and is powered by a coil spring. It is designed to run eight days once fully wound and strike each hour on a wire gong inside the case. 

This unusual model measures approximately 16 inches tall, 10.25 inches wide, and 4.25 inches deep. It was made circa 1870.

For the Jerome collector, Jerome also offered this "Foil Front" decoration on a small octagon gallery clock. The two complement each other nicely. 

Chauncey Jerome was born in 1793 in Canaan, Connecticut, the son of a blacksmith and a nail-maker. He has a storied history in the Connecticut clock industry, becoming one of our nation's giant employers and producers during his lifetime. His autobiography has been reprinted and is available at the American Clock and Watch Museum in Bristol, CT. It is a worthy read.

Inventory number 212076.