Banjo clock

Date1810-1830

Artist/Maker Aaron Willard Jr.

MediumMahogany, glass, brass, white pine, lead, and iron

DimensionsOH (including eagle): 42 3/8";O W: 10 3/8"; OD: 4 1/2"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1971-376

DescriptionBanjo shaped case topped by a carved and gilded eagle on ball, which dials into center of domed projection atop circular dial. The face door with brass rims and glass face, push lock at left, door hinged at right. A white painted dial with black numerals and iron hands. Winding holes on either side of center sides of dial are mahogany. Below dial, tapering waist with mahogany sides. Face consists of an eglomise glass panel painted white with gilt, green, and red painted designs consisting of, from top to bottom, cornucopia, cartouche, and a figure of Fame holding a liberty cap. Glass is surrounded by a gilt, wooden ball carved in a rope twist with gilt blocks at each corner. The waist is framed by pierced brass fret C-scrolls extending from base of dial to top of base. Rectangular base with mahogany sides and top. Central eglomise panel with white border surrounding painted scene of an allegorical figure in a chariot pulled by winged horses. Panel surrounded by carved rope twist wood border similar to that on waist. Panel hinges at right and opens to adjust pendulum. Base rests on carved gilt bracket with central fluted section terminating in acorn drop below. Works of clock are brass with lead weights. Iron hanger on back old and probably original.
Inscribed"A. Willard, Jr. / Boston" painted on dial.
"Patent" in scroll on center glass.

Markings"436495" scratched into face of works.
"499" stamped into rear of face, rear of center panel.
"500" stamped into inside of back and same number also stamped into top rear side door.
"L 35 60" in blue crayon on rear of base.