Miniature stencil column and splat shelf clock. Made by Treat & Bishop for George Mitchell. UU-91.

This short case transitional shelf clock was made by the firm Treat & Bishop for George Mitchell of Bristol, Connecticut, circa 1831- 1833. This is a diminutive size measuring approximately 21 inches tall, 11.5 inches wide, and 4.5 inches deep. It is in excellent original condition.

This rare column-and-cornice case is constructed of mahogany and retains an older finish. The case sits flat on the table or mantel, without feet. The front of the case doubles as a left-hinged door. It is held closed by a hook-and-eye arrangement on the right side about halfway up. The outer edges of this door are fitted with half columns. They are nicely turned and shaped. They are painted black and retain their original stenciled decoration. The door is visually divided into two sections. The lower section is fitted with a colorfully painted tablet. This tablet has experienced some areas of loss to the paint scene. The colors used in the design are excellent. The upper section is glazed. This door opens to allow one access to the weight, pendulum, dial, and Clockmaker's label. The dial is painted on wood and measures 9.5 inches wide and 9 inches tall. The dial is decorated with fancy gilt spandrels and an inner ring. The hours are displayed in Roman style numerals. Behind the dial is a wooden geared movement. It is a timepiece. It is weight-driven. The Clockmaker's label is pasted to the backboard. It reads, "IMPROVED / TIME PIECE, / MANUFACTURED / BY / TREAT & BISHOP, / FOR / GEORGE MITCHELL, / BRISTOL, CONN.” This label is in excellent original condition. The top of the case is surmounted by a crest. This crest is original to this clock. Two mahogany chimneys support this crest or painted splat. The splat retains much of its original decoration.

The firm Treat & Bishop was comprised of Sherman Treat and Daniel F. Bishop. They worked together from 1831 to 1833. Their shop was located in Bristol, Conn. They made wooden geared clocks for the financier George Mitchell. 

Inventory number UU-91.