Jeromes’ & Darrow of Bristol, Connecticut. A Transitional Shelf Clock. MM-163A.

This is a clean example of a transitional shelf clock made by Jeromes’ & Darrow of Bristol, Connecticut, circa 1828 - 1833.

The firm of Jeromes’ & Darrow was comprised of Chauncey Jerome, Elijah Darrow, and Noble Jerome. It was located on Main Street near the Requabuck River. This firm occupied buildings on both sides of the street. Chauncey Jerome provided the cases. Noble Jerome was to provide the movements. Elijah Darrow provided the painted tablets.

The case is mahogany and retains its original surface. Inside this mahogany case is the Clockmaker’s label, which reads, \"Improved clocks, \/ Manufactured \/ by \/ Jeromes' & Darrow, \/ BRISTOL, CONN.” This label is pasted onto the backboard and is in very good original condition. This case clock stands on four feet. The front two are carved in the stylized form of animal paws. The foot on the left is missing a single toe. The two rear feet are turned and feature various ring patterns as decoration. Positioned on either side of the front door are half columns. These are painted black and then decorated with floral stencils. This decoration is original to this clock and is in very good original condition. The top of the case also displays stencil work. This premier location is called the splat. It is supported by two capped mahogany plinths that support the carved pineapple finials. These are original to this clock. The center of the case is fitted with a door that is veneered in mahogany and divided into two sections. The upper section retains its original glass that is puttied in place. This glass has a minor crack in the lower left corner. The lower section is fitted with a reverse-painted tablet. This tablet is original to this clock and is colorfully painted. It does show some minor losses to the design. This painted scene has wonderful depth. The painted wooden dial is decorated with gilt designs. The time ring is formatted with Arabic hour numerals. The wooden geared movement is weight driven and is designed to run for thirty hours fully wound. It will also strike each hour on a cast iron bell mounted to the backboard of this clock.

This fine example stands approximately 30.5 inches tall, 17 inches wide, and 4.75 inches deep. This clock was made circa 1830.

Inventory number MM-163A.