Name/Title
Vermont Mirror ClockEntry/Object ID
2024.1.1Description
Jeremiah Dewey (1788-1849) Vermont Mirror Clock. Dewey was a multi-skilled individual and advertised as a gold and silver smith along with the making and repair of clocks and watches. He lived and worked in Chelsea from approximately 1823 – 1830.Context
Extremely rare and unique Vermont mirror clock. The clock is signed in flowing script on the dial “J. Dewey” along with the town. These Vermont mirror clocks are quite unique from those made in far greater volumes in neighboring NH and MA..
Two primary case forms were used by Dewey with the only difference being the door frame, this being the more ornate with applied gilt and black painted half round columns and raised corner blocks with brass rosettes. The other was an austere model with flat mahogany veneered frames. Both models with the very distinctively shaped lower pediment and notably tall upper scroll top, and with case approximately ½-3/4 inches narrower than most NH examples. Brass rosettes adorned the upper and lower tips with this model having a central rosette in the lower pediment. Also note the incredibly lively and highly unusual mahogany veneer on both the upper scrolls and lower pediment. The wide flowing grain is textbook Dewey, if there is such a thing, and while somewhat similar to crotch mahogany it’s a far more exotic species and quite interesting that this clock maker clearly had ample access to it.
Three gilded pine finials rest at the top of the clock. These egg-shaped finials are once again a unique and distinctive feature of a Dewey mirror clock. Note the off-center placement of the rosettes, top and bottom, yet another unique treatment found on these Dewey clocks. Case construction is all correct and consistent with other Dewey examples; dovetails, open central bottom, long wide interior case stiles/weight channel and backboard with flared edges. These cases varied in depth both that of the top boards and the sides as well.
The clock originally had a reverse painted upper glass. The original painted iron dial is in good condition, with untouched original signature. Original steel barbed hands. The mirror has been replaced
You will see the word “unique” used many times here. That’s the best single description of Jeremiah Dewey and his mirror clocks. There really is little to nothing that shows strong influences from surrounding regions. It's his unique approaches that make his clocks among the very most intriguing to study.Made/Created
Date made
circa 1823 - circa 1830
