This 19th century Federal walnut cased tall clock features some of the BEST selection of walnut grained wood that I have personally seen. In addition, the case is nicely proportioned. Similar clocks, in terms of the case construction and form, have been found with their dials signed by Pennsylvania Clockmakers. The extensive use of carefully chosen figured walnut throughout the case design suggests that it was most likely made for a townhouse or a metropolitan customer.

This outstanding case stands on four French feet that incorporate a delicate scroll pattern which flows from one foot to the next. The front corners of the base are slightly chamfered. The center section of the base features a book matched crotch veneered panel. The wood used in this location features a layered feather appearance. This is framed with a wide cross banded boarder. Both the top and bottom of this base panel are fitted with an applied apron. The use of this interesting design is also repeated in the waist section. This unusual design element may be unique to this example. The waist is long and features a simply shaped door. It is trimmed with a cock beaded edge. The veneer formatting of this door is similar to the pattern found in the base panel. It is outstanding. A wide cross banded boarder frames a wonderfully figured selection of crotch veneer. A lenticle, trimmed with a double ringed molding and a glass panel is fitted in the lower section. This provides one with the ability to view the brass covered pendulum bob with out having to open the waist door. This appears to be a period detail. The sides of the waist are also chamfered. The bonnet is a swans neck pediment form that terminates in decorative brass rosettes. A single finial is centered at the too of the case. It is in the form of an urn. The frames are nicely carved. Fully turned bonnet columns flank the arched glazed door which opens to a colorfully painted iron moon phase dial.

This brilliantly colored dial was painted in Boston by either by Spencer Nolen or by the Nolen & Curtis firm. This is an outstanding example of what is referred to a level three dial. This is thought to have been the most expensive dial that they would have sold due to the size, the heavy gesso work and intricate details. This dial displays hours, minutes, seconds, phases of the moon and is fitted with a month calendar.

The movement is constructed in brass. It is designed to run for an eight day duration and to faithfully strike each hour over that period of time. The hours are struck on a cast iron bell which is mounted above the movement on a stand. The striking system has a heavy German influence. This movement is powered by cast iron weights and is wound with a key. It is good quality.

This clock was made circa 1818. It stands an impressive 7 feet 10.5 inches tall.

Everything about this clock suggests it was owned by a family who prized it highly and treated it with exceptional care. It remains an elegant and bold interpretation of the current Federal style by a gifted Central Pennsylvania artisan.