Early 19th Century Austrian Viennese Automaton Portico Mantel Clock With Quarter Strike

Details

Description

This listing is for a rare antique “Viennese” Austrian portico clock.

This clock features a 3 train silk thread movement … Read more This listing is for a rare antique “Viennese” Austrian portico clock.

This clock features a 3 train silk thread movement with quarter strike. Most notable is the “automaton” feature on skeletonized dial. On the quarter hour strike, 2 cherubs depicted as blacksmiths move hammers with their arms. One cherub moves with the quarter hour chime and the other moves with the hour chime that follows.

This clock comes in an enormous case (measures about 17 x 5.5 x 28.25 inches).

The casing is of the highest quality with Biedermeier-like woodwork and early Orientalist designs.

The front is adorned with marble pillars inspired by Islamic designs. The back is decorated with 2 large mirrors (appear to be replacements).

The woodwork is adorned with intricate metalwork. The sides and top are completed with gilt wooden figures including an eagle.

This clock dates to around 1800. Experts such as Bonhams Auction House attribute to the movement to possibly be the work of Anton Rettich of Vienna.

This clock was last serviced in 2015. It appears to have been professionally conserved in the past. The movement is quite intricately made.

Chairish sells clocks solely to be intended for display. The mechanical elements are not guaranteed to be in working order by Chairish.

Note: for safest delivery, elements of the clock and casing will be disassembled prior to shipment. See less