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Federal Mantel Clocks

FEDERAL STYLE

Following the Revolutionary War, the American republic referenced the Roman Republic in its designs to celebrate its independence and declare itself a powerful new country. Imbued with neoclassical elements like those being promoted by architect Robert Adam in Great Britain, antique Federal-style furniture was the first distinctly American style in its melding of ancient influences, European aesthetics and national pride.

Dating roughly from 1790 to 1830, the style featured angular furniture with saber legs and smooth surfaces that contrasted with the curvy Rococo style that was previously in fashion. Eagles were common ornamental motifs on Federal-period furniture, as were cornucopia, lyres, garlands and scrolls, adding subtle flair to pieces characterized by clean lines, geometric symmetry, balanced shapes and a sense of grandeur.

Instead of sculptural carvings, authentic Federal-style furniture was adorned with inlays and patterned veneers that showcased the rich character of different grains and types of wood. As social life tended to be informal in the young country, furniture was often lightweight, so it could be easily rearranged in a drawing room or bedroom. Pieces like dining tables with drop leaves and sideboards became popular, replacing larger chests of drawers.

The Federal style varied by region: Artisans in Charleston, South Carolina, decorated chairs with carved backs, for instance, while those in Baltimore, Maryland, preferred painted details. Its major proponents included father-and-son cabinetmakers John and Thomas Seymour in Boston, Duncan Phyfe and Charles-Honoré Lannuier in New York and Samuel McIntire in Salem, Massachusetts.

Find antique Federal tables, mirrors, storage cabinets and other Federal furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

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Style: Federal
Aaron Willard Boston Federal Shelf Clock Arched & Inlaid Pediment/ Mahogany Case
By Aaron Willard
Located in Savannah, GA
This magnificent shelf clock has an arched and inlaid pediment over a painted dial that is signed "Aaron Willard, Boston," fancifully painted within cartouche with laurel wreath and ...
Category

Early 1800s American Antique Federal Mantel Clocks

Materials

Brass, Tin

Aaron Willard Boston Federal Shelf Clock Arched & Inlaid Pediment/ Mahogany Case
Aaron Willard Boston Federal Shelf Clock Arched & Inlaid Pediment/ Mahogany Case

Aaron Willard Boston Federal Shelf Clock Arched & Inlaid Pediment/ Mahogany Case

Aaron Willard Boston Mahogany Shelf Clock w/ Eglomisé Painting & Eagle Finial
By Aaron Willard
Located in Savannah, GA
Popularized at the turn of the 19th century in coastal Massachusetts, these handsome shelf clocks are subsequently referred to as Massachusetts shelf clocks. This decorated example ...
Category

1820s American Antique Federal Mantel Clocks

Materials

Brass

Aaron Willard Boston Mahogany Shelf Clock w/ Eglomisé Painting & Eagle Finial
Aaron Willard Boston Mahogany Shelf Clock w/ Eglomisé Painting & Eagle Finial

Aaron Willard Boston Mahogany Shelf Clock w/ Eglomisé Painting & Eagle Finial

American Mahogany Pillar and Scroll Mantel Clock, Eli Terry, Circa 1825
By Eli Terry & Sons
Located in Hollywood, SC
American Federal mahogany pillar and scroll mantel clock with a broken arch pediment, three urn wood finials, flanking ringed columns, hinged glass d...
Category

1820s American Antique Federal Mantel Clocks

Materials

Brass

American Mahogany Pillar and Scroll Mantel Clock, Eli Terry, Circa 1825
American Mahogany Pillar and Scroll Mantel Clock, Eli Terry, Circa 1825

American Mahogany Pillar and Scroll Mantel Clock, Eli Terry, Circa 1825

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Federal mantel clocks for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Federal mantel clocks for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 19th Century, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage mantel clocks created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include decorative objects and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with brass, glass and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Federal mantel clocks made in a specific country, there are North America, and United States pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original mantel clocks, popular names associated with this style include and Eli Terry & Sons. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for mantel clocks differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $6,800 and tops out at $6,800 while the average work can sell for $6,800.

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