Simon Willard Federal Mahogany Tall-Case Clock

Simon Willard Federal Mahogany Tall-Case Clock

Roxbury, Massachusetts, circa 1795–1800
Painted moon-phase dial inscribed “Warranted for Mr. Nath’l Butler”

98 inches Tall x 20.5 w x 10.5 inches

A fine and historically intriguing Federal mahogany tall-case clock attributed to Simon Willard of Roxbury, Massachusetts, distinguished by an elaborate painted moon-phase dial inscribed “Warranted for Mr. Nath’l Butler.”

The arched mahogany bonnet is surmounted by pierced fretwork and three brass ball-and-spire finials and flanked by fluted columns with brass capitals and bases. The white-painted iron dial displays Roman hour numerals, Arabic minute numerals, subsidiary seconds, finely pierced steel hands and floral-painted corner spandrels. The arch contains an elaborate lunar display with painted moon face and maritime imagery.

Of particular importance is the period inscription “Warranted for Mr. Nath’l Butler,” identifying the individual for whom the clock appears to have been supplied. Similar personalized wording survives on documented Simon Willard clocks made for named patrons, including examples warranted for Seth Nickerson, David Wood and Mr. James. The Butler inscription therefore presents a significant opportunity for further genealogical and provenance research. Gary Sullivan Antiques

The combination of a personalized dial, lunar complication, elaborate Federal mahogany case and association with one of America's foremost early clockmakers makes this a particularly compelling example of late eighteenth-century Massachusetts clockmaking.