Aaron Willard Federal Painted Shelf Clock, Boston, c. 1815, the cherry case with original off-white paint, gilded rope-molded frames enclosing the reverse-painted tablet in the hood section inscribed Aaron Willard, Boston within an oval cartouche on a stenciled ground with lyre spandrels over the iron dish dial with Roman numerals, the lower section with gilded rope-molding framing the original looking glass above a pillow molding and gilded ball feet, eight-day timepiece with iron weight and 12-in. pendulum, ht. 33 1/2 in.
Note: Commonly called "bride's" clocks, these white painted clocks are rare variants of the "dish" dial glass front shelf clocks. Other Federal forms found in off-white paint include chairs, dressing tables, and wall clocks.
Estimate $30,000-50,000
No significant repairs, replacements or restoration. Original hands, weight, pendulum, white paint, gilded and stenciled surfaces are all the original, minor losses to painted surfaces and to winding hole area of dial, original looking glass, finials are probable replacements, an outstanding example of what is commonly known as a "Bride's Clock".
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.