This highly important antique clock by Calvin Bailey is among the earliest examples of the rare diminutive “dwarf” case clocks produced in the Southeastern Massachusetts area. This sophisticated early case is fashioned after a full size Chippendale case and survives in superb original condition, retaining a warm historic surface with a mellow patina. The interior of the dwarf clock has a wonderful chalk inscription which documents the date that Calvin Bailey produced the clock, “Nov. 1800”. The clock was made for Josiah Cotton [1747-1819] of Plymouth, Massachusetts. The Cottons were a principal family in early Plymouth county, tracing their lineage to the eminent Puritan minister John Cotton who arrived in 1633. John Cotton [1585-1652] became father-in-law to Increase Mather and grandfather to Cotton Mather, each influential Puritan ministers. The cabinetmaker, Theodore Cushing of Hingham, is discussed in an article in the magazine Antiques, May 2009. The considerable quality and condition of this rare antique dwarf clock together with an impeccable provenance, distinguish this as an extremely important example of this rare form.

Dimensions

Height: 52 1/2”, with center finial, Width at base: 13 ¼”, Depth: 8"