Science, Technology & Clocks
Description:
Stephen Taber Mahogany Tall Clock, New Bedford, Massachusetts, c. 1800, painted iron dial inscribed S. Taber, Roman numerals, gilt corner spandrels and moon's age in the arch, pierced fret top with brass stop fluted free-standing columns flanking the glazed hood door, fan inlaid rectangular waist, brass stop- fluted quarter columns and fan inlaid base on ogee feet, eight-day time and strike brass movement with pendulum and two iron weights, ht. 89 1/2 in..
Note: According to Jobe, Sullivan and Obrien, Harbor & Home, Furniture of Southeastern Massachusetts 1710-1850, Stephen Taber (1777-1862) was trained by Boston clockmaker Aaron Willard and moved to New Bedford to make clocks in 1799. His interesting clock career, which ended about 1810, is described on pp. 174-175.
Estimate $8,000-12,000
Object right front and rear feet and fret are replacements, dial and signature undisturbed, movement wants cleaning.