08-14-201108-14-2011
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsMarlborough MA
August 14, 2011 10:00 AMCalender
256

Carved Cedar Tall Case Clock

Sell one like this
$3,555$3,000
Auction: American Furniture & Decorative Arts - 2558MLocation: MarlboroughDate / Time: August 14, 2011 10:00AM

Description:

Carved Cedar Tall Case Clock, John Bailey, Hanover, Massachusetts, c. 1780, with a engraved brass tombstone dial inscribed John Bailey Hanover in the arch, with seconds indicator, brass eight-day weight-powered movement with skeletonized plates, (imperfections),ht. 83 in.

Note: A partial label mounted inside the drawer reads in part, "this pine [sic] high clock was made in Hanover, Massachusetts, by John Bailey, who was born August 6, 1751, and was one of the first clocks made by him. The history of Hanover speaks of his having made his first clock at the age of eleven years, 'which (in 1893) is still keeping good time.' This clock was purchased of John Bailey by Thomas Rose, who was deacon of the first church of Hanover and also selectman of the town... from Mr. Magner [likely an early 20th century owner] it was purchased by Henry D. Sleeper for Mr. George F.---, W---town, Pennsylvania."

Literature: For a discussion of early Bailey tall clocks, see Cheney and Zea, Clock Making in New England: 1725-1825. Specifically, fig. 1-17, p. 23, shows a clock with a brass movement and a similar, though likely slightly later case.
Estimate $3,000-5,000

shims added underneath the seatboard, lacks finish, finial possibly original,

Keywords

John Bailey, John Bailey Hanover, Massachusetts, Hanover, Magner, Thomas Rose, Henry D. Sleeper, Pennsylvania, Cheney, New England