This is an original circa 1820s Pillar and Scroll clock invented by Eli Terry and manufactured by Seth Thomas of Plymouth, Connecticut. 30 hour movement with count-wheel strike.
Known as a Pillar and Scroll because of its attractive design utilizing a scrolled bonnet, scalloped apron, and matching freestanding parallel side columns. It retains a face the size of a tall clock. The Pillar and Scroll revolutionized the industry as it created an attractive and reliable clock for the home that was not as bulky as its better known, and prohibitively expensive cousin, the long case (or grandfather) clock. The popularlity of the Pillar and Scroll clock allowed Seth Thomas and his company rise to the premier seat of the Connecticut Valley clock manufacturers, a position held well into the 20th century.
This particularly example was acquired from a Maine estate. At the widest points it measures 17 3/8\" x 4 5/8\" x 31 1/4\". The case is crafted from mohagany. There are a few closed splits in the veneer surrounding the door (no loss). Appears to retain most of what I believe is the original finish. If it was redone, it was many years ago. The tips of the bonnet (scroll) were repaired and two of the French feet were broken and reglued long ago. The urn finials appear to be early brass replacements. Loss of bone(?) from around the keyhole escutcheon. There is a key, and the lock is present, but not functional.
The upper glass was replaced. The lower reverse painting on glass is original. It is a lovely scene showing a church (or meeting house) on the left, a Federal style home on the right and a weeping willow in the foreground. The entire painting is bordered in gilt. Shows chipping associated with age. Opening the door reveals the face, two hanging iron weights, a brass over lead pendulum and a large iron gong. The hand painted face is completely original. Beautifully executed on a white background with a black Roman numeral chapter ring. Fantastic raised gilt decorated corner pieces with a gilt center ring. Between the keyholes is a lovely red and green floral motif. Slightly soiled around the margins with ususal crazing. Both hands are original and in good order.
Most of the original clock paper instructions are present. The center portion reads, \"Patent Clocks, Invented by Eli Terry. Made and Sold at Plymouth, Connecticut by Seth Thomas...\" Penned on the works appears, \"Harry W. Heprurn, Harrison, ME 4/2/10, 7/19/11 Tee. 1 tooth great whl strike 12/16/11\". On the back of the face, in pencil, appears, \"C.W. Hetzel 20 June 1814; James J. Hetzel Oct 13, 1838, Clinton, NJ; Augt 28th 1856\".
I tested the clock for ten hours. The time and strike functions worked flawlessly. Such early clocks, especially wooden works examples, are particularly sensative to temperature, humidity and being level (also remember to make sure the weight cords are resting on the pulleys located under the dust caps at the top). Though the clock will be expertly packed, with the finials, keys and weights being shipped separately, some adjustment might be required to ensure proper time keeping and function.
A rare clock.
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