AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com

Hopkins & Alfred column & splat shelf clock, 1831-1839. Brothers-in-law Edward and Augustus worked for Norris North in 1825-26 and went into business on their own in 1831 in Harwinton CT (just south of Torrington). This is a 30-inch unrestored case with bronze-stenciled half-columns and splat. Of course, the main attraction is the original tablet of Gilbert du Motier, the Marquis de Lafayette. This is based on a lithograph by an unknown lithographer (possibly Gerard), which in turn was based on a now-famous painting of Lafayette, again by an unknown artist, that was made upon his heroic return to the US in 1824. This is the only clock known to my consignor, or myself, that holds a Lafayette portrait like this. The tablet and glass are largely original, with some touch-up. The dial glass is also original, the wooden dial is clean with strong numbering and gilding, the hands are period. The 30-hour Terry-type wooden movement was made with permission of Eli Terry in return for 20 clocks; it will strike and will run for a minute or two, with two period weights, a period pendulum bob, and a good label inside. There are two period dust covers over the pulleys on top. Outstanding for the tablet; portraits of famous statesmen, including Henry Clay and George Washington, can be found on other H&A clocks. $200–$500.