This antique federal dwarf clock is attributed to the prominent Quaker clockmaker, Joshua Wilder (1786-1860) and features a full striking eight-day movement. The movement is basically a miniature tall clock movement that will strike in accordance with the hour. The movement is accessed via a one piece hinged backboard. This is signed and dated by Wilder’s apprentice and fellow Quaker clockmaker, Allen Kelley “A. Kelly / 1830 / 1st month 6th day. This clock was produced by Wilder, yet retailed by Kelley who in 1830 was an active clockmaker and jeweler on Cape Cod, the Islands and New Bedford. This common retailing practice explains why the dial was not signed with Wilder’s name. The inlaid mahogany case also feature high quality graining that emulates the richly figured mahogany. The case was made by Weymouth cabinetmaker and clock case specialist, Abiel White. Dwarf clock cases that retain their original grain painted decoration rarely survive, making this clock a very special example. The bell form top has a shaped splat and single urn form finial above a tombstone dial. The dial has a painted arch decorated with a detailed classical landscape with lakeside castle and an arched bridge. The clock face is framed with patriotic shield-form spandrels. This antique dwarf clock is from the Luke Vincent Lockwood collection and is illustrated in his “Colonial Furniture in America” Vol. II, page 290, fig 852.

Dimensions

Height including finial 45 ½”, Width 11", Depth 5 ½”