Tall Case Clock c. 20th century

Curator: We're looking at a tall case clock, made by Bigelow, Kennard & Co. Its imposing height, nearly 8 feet, immediately commands attention. Editor: It feels like time itself has solidified into this grand, wooden form. I'm struck by the weight of tradition it carries. Curator: Absolutely. Consider how these clocks historically regulated not just individual lives, but entire communities. The pendulum’s swing determined work shifts, mealtimes, and social gatherings. Editor: And the materials themselves speak of status. The polished wood, the intricate metalwork – these were expensive to produce. Who had access to this kind of craftsmanship? Curator: The clock becomes a symbol of power dynamics, dictating the rhythms of life for some while others toiled. It makes me consider who benefited from the precise measurement of time. Editor: Precisely. This isn't just about telling time; it's about controlling labor, resources, and ultimately, people's lives. Curator: Examining the clock this way really reveals how an object can embody social and historical inequalities. Editor: Indeed. It encourages us to question whose time truly mattered, and at whose expense.