A New England tall clock. The pine case painted in blue milk paint. 214219

This is a very colorful example of a New England made tall case clock. It features traditional proportions that one would expect in a case that was made in the central region of Massachusetts. This case is constructed in pine and features a very thin painted blue surface. This recreated milk paint treatment has been recently applied to this case. The areas of wear have been manufactured to simulate the feeling of an 18th century painted case. This process has been very well done and the color can be best described as "Robin's Egg Blue."

The fine country case stands up off the floor on applied bracket feet that retain their original height. The waist section is long and is fitted with a large rectangular shaped waist door. This door is trimmed with a simple molded edge. Through this door, one can gain access to the weights that drive the clock and the brass covered pendulum bob. The bonnet features a traditional New England style pierced and open fret work pattern. This incorporates three finial plinths and three brass ball and spike finials. The free standing bonnet columns are turned smooth and nicely shaped. The bonnet door is an arched form and is fitted with glass. This protects the painted iron dial.

This dial is colorfully paint decorated. Interestingly, this dial lacks the raised gesso worked that is traditionally found on imported dials from this period. This gesso work is often located in the borders of the spandrel areas and in the decoration found in the arch. In the arch of this dial is a lovely scene that includes a bird watching over its' neatly made nest. In the nest are two blue colored eggs. The nest is surrounded by colorful florals. The four spandrel areas are also decorated with floral themes. These are presented differently. They are done in gilt paint and are highlights on the dial. The time ring is formatted with large Arabic hour numerals. Arabic five minute markers are positioned above each hour. The time is indicated by nicely designed steel hands. These hands are hand filed into a lovely pattern. This dial displays also the seconds and calendar day in the traditional locations.

The movement is constructed in brass. It is designed to run eight days on a full wind and is weight driven. It is good quality. This clock strikes the hours on a cast iron bell that is mounted above the works.

This clock stands approximately 7 feet 8.5 inches tall and was made circa 1800. It is inventory number 214219.