$42,000
Ephraim Willard Rocking Ship Tall Clock, Boston, c. 1800, the mahogany case with inlaid scroll-top hood and vase-shape, classical, brass finials, with applied handles, brass stop-fluted freestanding columns flanking the 13-in. painted iron Roman numeral dial inscribed Warranted for Mr. James Gardner, E. Willard, Boston , with painted rocking American ship automaton in the arch and gilt scroll spandrels, rectangular waist door with line and marquetry inlays flanked by brass stop fluted quarter columns and marquetry plinths, the base with line and fan inlay on French feet, eight-day time, and hour striking movement with iron weights and seconds beating pendulum, ht. 95 in. Note: Ephraim Willard clocks are much more rare than those of the other Willard clockmakers. He led a fascinating life as a clockmaker, merchant, landowner, a bankrupt and scofflaw. For extensive biographical information on Ephraim Willard, see Paul Foley, Willard's Patent Timepieces , p. 331.
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2013-05-04
