62.             $450

Asa Munger empire flat-top (ironing board) shelf clock, 1818-1825. Munger is famous for using prison labor to build his clocks, but this clock was made prior to the use of prison labor.  The walnut case is 39 inches tall with a distinctive flat cornice sometimes likened to an ironing board, and attractive book-matched burl veneer above the dial.  Note the rosettes in the corners and the carved half-columns flanking the mirror; the case has been cleaned to remove what was, no doubt, a thick patina.  The full-length door holds a mirror that is very old, but not 1820’s old.  The upper glass is original as is the metal dial surround, and neither has ever been out of the door.  I believe the flat dial has been repainted because the seconds dial chapter ring is solid rather than dotted, as is found in other examples; the minute and hour hand are likely original, the seconds bit a replacement.  Note that not all Munger dials bear a maker’s stamp. The brass 8-day, time-and-strike movement is not signed, but that is typical.  It is running but the strike is sluggish. The weights are not correct, as they should be long cast iron cylinders.  The flying eagle pendulum is correct but I suspect is a replacement.  The wallpaper on the backboard is wonderful with a pattern I have not seen before, and there is a dark but readable label inside.  Three of the four pulleys are wood, with one pewter pulley labeled “Patent Auburn”.  AAC sold similar examples in 2022 and 2023 for $617 and $529, respectively.  $450–$700.