Tall Clock 1822 - 1825

This tall clock was made by John Doggett, an American cabinetmaker active in the early 19th century. It's primarily constructed from mahogany, a prized wood known for its rich color and fine grain, and features a painted iron dial. The clock's aesthetic qualities are deeply rooted in the skilled labor of woodworking. The mahogany was carefully selected, sawn, and joined to create the clock's elegant form. Veneering techniques were likely employed to maximize the use of this expensive material, showcasing its beautiful grain patterns on the surface. The crispness of the clock's details speak to the hand tool techniques required to bring it into being. In its time, a clock like this represented a considerable investment. More than just telling time, it was a status symbol, reflecting the owner's wealth and refined taste. The clock, therefore, sits at the intersection of craft, commerce, and social aspiration. Appreciating the clock's material and the maker's process helps us consider these wider historical implications.