English ‘Act of Parliament’ Clock by Moses Abraham

This handsome ‘Act of Parliament’ or tavern clock was produced in the early 1800s by Moses Abraham in the Somerset region of England. Moses Abraham was a highly reputable and skilled clockmaker based in the market town of Frome, where this clock was produced. The case features refined, sleek lines of richly grained Honduran mahogany and is characteristically large, with a prominent dial.

Keeping time is an 8-day, 2-weight pendulum movement that strikes a bell at the hour. The time displays on a large silvered brass dial, with engraved Roman hour numerals, Arabic minute , and pierced hands. The dial signed Moses Abraham, Frome, is situated within a smooth brass bezel.

The story behind Act of Parliament clocks stems from a 5-shilling luxury tax on clocks imposed by Britain’s Prime Minister in 1797. The tax was intended to fund their war with France. As a result, clock owners took to hiding their timepieces, making it difficult to know the time of day. Taverns, inns, and other public establishments used the situation to their advantage. Hanging these sizable clocks prominently to aid the public would attract customers, increasing business. While the unpopular tax lasted only 9 months, it took quite a toll on the clock-making business.

This wonderful wall clock bears a full restoration and a one-year warranty.

50″H x 19″W x 8″D

Circa 1815