English carved tall case clock, ca 1720.
The movement could be from the late 1600's. This dark oak case is 87 1/2 inches tall and was likely made in the Halifax area just north of Manchester, where a majority of the carved cases were made. They were all stained with a black glossy stain after they were carved. The hood has twisted columns in front and full columns in back. There are alternating cross banded inlays of walnut and mahogany around the door, plus a beading around the door. On top is a carved frieze that was probably added when the case was carved. The date "1720" is carved into the case. There is a female? figure carved in the frieze, a female and lion carved in the middle, and a female head on the base. Fluted quarter columns on the middle section.The early 8 day movement is 2 train with calendar and day date, typical bell strike. It is signed, "Tos. Cooper Whitchurch", on the raised silver dial ring. Engraved hour numerals and minute numbers outside the dial ring. Raised seconds ring, etched-beveled arbors, corners offset with cast ornaments, etched brass center. There are large iron weights, a period brass pendulum, key lock door with key.The pillars in the movement are called "finned" pillars and are found in movements made from the late 1600's to 1740. For an excellent treatise on the carved clock and this type movement, read, "Grandfather Clocks & Their Cases", by Brian Loomes, pages 324-330. Page 37 describes finned pillars. An early movement of this type will sell for $2000 or more on the retail market. Truly a great old early clock.
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