Concord Mission Clock – Oak And Walnut Version
Simple sophistication with comforting tones is The Concord. A mighty presence, The Concord is not just about height, but a more evolved mission style. Embracing the traditional and dramatic quarter-sawn white oak, with it's sparkling ray fleck, The Concord is perfectly matched with walnut.
The quarter-sawn white oak is fumed; this is the traditional method often used by Stickley and others early in the Arts and Crafts (or "Mission") style. Fuming is the process of placing the piece in a confined space with industrial strength ammonia for about 2 hours, which causes a chemical reaction with the tannin in the wood, changing it's color to an ashen gray. Once a top coat (a satin polyurethane, in this case) is applied, that beautiful, rich mission-brown color comes through. The color won't fade or change at all, because it is a chemical reaction, and not a dye or stain. Even if it is sanded, the color is still there – up to 1/16th of an inch deep. Fuming also allows for a consistent color all over the piece – if all the pieces came from the same board(s). It can be a technically tricky finish to use, but the results are outstanding. Top coat is polyurethane, either satin or semi-gloss.
Inset is a complementary 4"x4" leaf ceramic tile, made by a local artist (style subject to availability; contact New Mission Workshop for more info). In the photo shown here, this is a copper clad ceramic tile the customer ordered from another vendor; it is still available from that vendor at this time of writing.
"Mr. Ashley's clocks are literal works of art! The materials are of the highest grade and the workmanship is outstanding. Not only are the products of top quality, but the service provided by Mr. Ashley is unmatched. He truly cares about quality; both in material and service." – Charles, Minneapolis, MN.
"There are not enough superlatives to describe how beautiful and wonderfully made this clock is and what a delight the artist is. And Patrick made this just for me! Such care and craftsmanship – it is truly a work of art. All materials are exceptional and the whole is a treasure for generations. I adore it and will be a repeat customer. Enjoyed the whole process. Thanks, Patrick!" – Karen in Georgia
Materials: Quarter-sawn white oak, with walnut embellishment; 4"x4" tile (varies)
Dimensions: Approximately 17"H x 9"W x 5"D
Finish: Amonnia fumed oak; Paduak; polyurethane, either satin or semi-gloss