Museum Collections
Luce Center
Tall case clock
Object Number:
1957.207
Date:
1795-1800
Medium:
Mahogany, poplar, oak
Dimensions:
Overall: 100 x 20 1/2 x 10 1/2 in. ( 254 x 52.1 x 26.7 cm )
Marks:
painted: on face "Edwd Meeks/Junr/New York"
written: in ink on label affixed inside door: "New York May 17 1891-/ This clock originally belonged to Samuel B. Harper. 'its [sic] has been in the family at least 75 years and probably more' says nrs. S.E[or
Description:
Mahogany Federal tall case clock; hood has broken scroll pediment with central gilded ball finial surmounted by gilded eagle; gilded ball with spire atop each scroll; colonettes flank arched glass door in front of clock; clock has circular dial painted with Roman numerals and spandrels with gilded borders around polychrome floral vignettes; waist has quarter columns flanking rectangular door with arched top; base has square front with square frame of applied molding around interior; bracket feet.
Gallery Label:
According to accession records and a label affixed to the inside of the clock's door, the original owner of this clock was Samuel Barker Harper (1777-1860). Edward Meeks, the maker of the clock, was a watch and clock maker in New York City between 1795 and 1798, and the brother of Joseph Meeks.
Credit Line:
Gift of the Estate of Lathrop Colgate Harper
Due to ongoing research, information about this object is subject to change.