Tall Clock 1772

Editor: Standing before us is the "Tall Clock" made in 1772 by Benjamin Willard. It is a captivating mix of wood and metal currently residing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I am immediately struck by its imposing height, how does something so practical become such an impressive statement piece? What are your thoughts when you observe it? Curator: It is an excellent observation. We are looking at more than just a clock, aren’t we? Think about 18th-century American society. Owning a clock like this signified not just wealth but a commitment to a structured life, to the values of industry and punctuality that were increasingly important during that era. In a sense, it’s a symbol of the rising merchant class and their ambition. Notice how Baroque and Neoclassical elements merge – the Baroque exuberance restrained by Neoclassical order. What does that suggest to you? Editor: It strikes me as a delicate dance between the old and the new – tradition versus aspiration? The owner clearly had some resources, they might have been considered upwardly mobile within their social sphere? Curator: Precisely! And think about where this clock would have been placed in the home – probably a prominent location for all to see. The “Tall Clock” thus performs a very public function. It speaks to the owner's status and aligns them with certain social and economic values. It's time made visible and power on display, so to speak. It’s also interesting to reflect on who had access to “keeping time” with a piece like this, and how that affected societal power structures, what do you think about that? Editor: This reframes how I see it entirely. The clock becomes not just about telling time but about controlling it, or at least appearing to! Very insightful. Curator: I am glad I could offer a glimpse into the intricate relationship between art, history, and social context. Considering these elements always adds such layers of meaning to our viewing experiences!