102. $500
Asa Munger empire flat-top (ironing board) shelf clock, 1820-1831. Munger is famous for using prison labor to build his clocks, but this clock was made prior the use of prison labor. The walnut case is 40 inches tall with a distinctive flat cornice sometimes likened to an ironing board, and attractive burl veneer above the dial. Note the two rosettes in the upper corners and the twisted columns flanking the mirror. The full-length door typically held a mirror in the lower section and had an unusually patterned metal dial surround, as found here. The mirror is old but not original with an old glass replacement over the dial. Here the metal dial surround is on the outside of the glass, rather than behind the glass as found in most instances. The painted metal dial is flat and marked in the pattern typical of Munger, but it is not signed, as is seen in some (but not all) other examples. The hands, including the unusual seconds bit, are Munger issue. The unique 8-day brass, time-and-strike movement is running and striking, driven by two 8-day weights and regulated by a flying eagle pendulum. The original wallpaper remains in good condition, with the original card label from Auburn NY. These clocks are not uncommon and are currently retailing between $600 and $900 when in good condition like this one.
Antique American Clocks July 2022
