Tallcase Clock

An excellent tallcase clock by America’s master horologist, David Rittenhouse. The elegant, perfectly proportioned mahogany case exhibits the finest Philadelphia features, such as delicately carved rosettes in the swan’s neck pediment, and magnificently carved flambeau finials. The case is twice marked, I. Parrish. The eight-day movement is the finest of traditional 18th century construction that can be found in America.

The silvered steel, single-sheet dial with American Rococo engraving is attributed to James Smither (active Philadelphia, 1741-1797), the dial is inscribed in the arch, David Rittenhouse Philada. Graceful foliage scrollwork with gentle asymmetry fill the corners and the center of the dial.

The American rococo style was displayed in engraving, wood carving, and architectural ornamentation such as mantelpieces, especially popular with the wealthy American merchants in the port cities of New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Boston. Its fluid lines with gentle asymmetry of spiraling scrollwork was inspired by nature. Graceful motifs often included Father Time, serpents, eagles, intertwined vines.– a colonial interpretation of the popular European rococo. Paul Revere and other American master silversmiths prided themselves on their fine American rococo engraving on all manner of household wares, and also ornamentation of firearms and elegant clock dials. An alternative American dial from the imported brass and painted tallcase dials had a uniquely American flair. The finest immigrant artisans were welcomed in Philadelphia; and their freedom in the New World informs the style with American individuality. The American Revolution curtailed its use, replaced by the Enlightenment-inspired return to neoclassicism.