A lovely wall timepiece or banjo clock featuring inlaid frames of tulipwood, possibly made by Irving & Casson of Boston, Massachusetts. Dec 25-2.

This fine Federal-style Massachusetts Timepiece, with its high-quality construction and hand-painted tablets, is designed to inspire admiration among collectors and antique enthusiasts. It is commonly called a "Banjo Clock" And was made in Massachusetts in the first half of the 20th century. Although unsigned, similar clocks signed by Irving & Casson suggest a connection to renowned craftsmanship.

This beautiful case form is closely related to the examples listed in the Waltham Clock catalogs. This clock is similar in its quality, construction, and choice of well-executed painted tablets. Waltham sold clocks like this one for $75. Where it differs is in the way the movement is constructed.

The brass weight-driven movement is designed for eight days once fully wound. The works feature large rectangular plates. (Please note that this clock was photographed before we serviced the movement.) Four posts space the plates apart. The hardened steel shafts are fitted with pinions and support the undercut brass gearing. The pendulum is suspended from a T-bridge mounted to the top of the front plate. Its metal rod supports a brass-covered lead bob. The brass movement is mounted with two diagonally positioned steel through-bolts that attach to a metal mounting bracket. The drive weight is lead.

The case is crafted from mahogany, with the original finish mellowed over time, adding historic charm. It is topped with a gilded acorn finial mounted on a plinth, complemented by a brass dial bezel and sidearms. The presentation bracket, featuring carved flutes, nine wooden balls, and a drop finial, enhances its decorative appeal. The painted tablets are set in mahogany frames adorned with tulipwood banding, creating a striking contrast that highlights the clock's fine craftsmanship. 

The reverse-painted tablets are hand-painted in excellent colors and demonstrate the ability of a skilled artisan. The throat features a traditional theme for this wall clock form. Central to the theme is a vase with a vine of flowers rising from it. The lower tablet depicts a popular view of George Washington's house, Mount Vernon. This scene is colorfully decorated.

The painted iron dial is slightly convex and decorated with Arabic hour numerals and a closed minute ring. Open-diamond-shaped steel hands display the time. 

This clock measures approximately 41 inches long overall.

Inventory number Dec 25-2.