Samuel Breneisen, Reading

Samuel Breneisen, Sr. was the son of Valentine Breneisen II and his wife, Salome Herman. Trinity Lutheran Church, Lancaster, PA, records indicate that Samuel was baptized on May 24, 1772. He married Susanna Barbara Schwartz, daughter of George and Elizabeth (Nein) Schwartz on February 18, 1799.   Samuel was a prolific clockmaker at work in Reading (Berks County), and later removed to Adamstown and Reamstown (Lancaster County).  He also had a son “Samuel” who also was a clockmaker and continued with the business.

The example in this offering is an incredible bold Cherry Chippendale Tall Case Clock with fan, shell, butterfly, urn, oval, line, and eagle inlay.   The shaped waist door flanked by fluted quarter columns featuring an American eagle central theme.  The base section with quarter fan inlay continuing to ogee bracket feet.   The bonnet with carved scroll moldings terminating in floral rosettes flanked by block and turned stretchers.  Three oval inset mahogany medallions adorn the face board.    The glazed bonnet door opens to a wonderful local painted American dial (Reading Craftsman Benj. Witman) with four seasons spandrel decoration and a lunar phase dial featuring the identifiable “Reading” flying eagle.   The back of the dial is numbered “191” on the dial plate and the moon disc.   The fine quality eight day brass striking movement with seconds bit and calendar register.   Original weights, pendulum, and winding key.   Overall height at 99 inches tall.

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