Science, Technology & Clocks
Description:
Lucius B. Bradley Mahogany Pillar and Scroll Shelf Clock, Watertown, Connecticut, c. 1823, with scroll top, brass urn finials, painted iron dial inscribed by retailer, J. W. Cortelyou, Morris-town, Roman numerals, second's bit, painted shell spandrels and raised gesso dots in the "Boston dial" manner, printed maker's label inside backboard, all on French feet, eight-day time and rack strike movement with compound weights and brass faced pendulum bob, ht. 33 1/4 in.
William Drost, Clocks and Watches of New Jersey, pp. 61-2 pictures another Salem Bridge shelf clock marked with the same retailer's name and confirms Cortelyou's status as a merchant. See also, Chris H. Bailey, Heman Clark and the Salem Bridge Shelf Clock, NAWCC Bulletin Supplement, No. 13, 1980, pp. 28-9 for additional information on Lucius B. Bradley.
Estimate $8,000-12,000
Right and left foot facades are old restorations, painted glass and brass finials are an old replacement, scroll tips restored, losses on label.