This attractive antique tall case clock with a rare rocking ship dial animation was made by the influential Quaker clockmaker, John Bailey Jr. (1787-1883). John Jr. (III) was a leading member of the renowned group of Quaker clockmakers from Hanover and Hingham, Massachusetts. The movement is numbered and dated on the front plate “No. 123” and dated in a Quaker fashion “4th Mo 1819”. This fine example was produced for the Southern market. The history of ownership indicates that the clock was owned by Mr. Thomas Figures Norfleet of Bertie County, North Carolina. The clock has remained in the Norfleet family until being recently acquired by Gary Sullivan Antiques Inc. Recent scholarship by Mr. Sullivan indicates that the enterprising John Bailey Jr. produced a number of fine clocks for the Southern market, selling them via agents or during his visits to North Carolina. The clock case which is constructed of the highest quality mahogany has a bright surface and mellow color. This dial features a finely painted animated rocking ship in the form of a frigate flying an American flag. The ship rocks back and forth from left to right with the movement of the pendulum and escapement.

Height including center finial: 96”; Width 20”; Depth 9 ¾”

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