History of the Mantel Clock: By Glenn Mast

Have you ever wondered, what is the history behind of a mantle clock? It is a house timepiece that usually sits upon the mantel or shelf, above the fireplace, inside a house, hence the name.  These timepieces originated in France in the 1750s. What made these new time pieces different from their close relatives, is the lack of a large handle on the top of the case. The decorative timepieces back then were designed to be taken by carriage, and had the handle for easy maneuverability. Mantel timepieces were designed to be shown off in the home and are very extravagant, artistic and decorative. They are usually made of porcelain or wood. 

In the 1860s some of the French mantel clocks were made of onyx, marble, or slate.  These were very expensive to produce so when American companies started to produce them, they used iron or wood.  The woods used were typically cherry or oak. In modern times even brass is used to make mantel timepieces as there are many different styles of mantle timepieces produced in the modern age

 Author Resource: Glenn Mast is a successful business owner of a couple websites that offer Amish Handcrafted Products. His sites offer products and information about Amish Made Products & decor for your home, lawn or garden.

http://www.amishbuiltlawndecor.com

http;//www.amishhandcraftedmetalwindchimes.com