Edwardian Coventry Astral Chinoiserie Pagoda Mantel Clock, England, Circa 1930

Details

Description

An English Edwardian mantel clock with a Coventry Astral movement, housed in a japanned wooden case of architectural pagoda form. … Read more An English Edwardian mantel clock with a Coventry Astral movement, housed in a japanned wooden case of architectural pagoda form. The dark ground is richly ornamented with raised gilt and polychrome Chinoiserie decoration, complemented by red accents and gilded moldings. Its sweeping roof has upturned corners, a scalloped edge, and radiating gilt ribs, surmounted by a lobed, gilt finial.

The decoration combines figural landscapes, pavilions, bridges, foliage, and fanciful long-tailed birds arranged around the circular dial. A prominent side panel depicts a figure carrying a parasol across a bridge, with selected details modeled in low relief to give the scene depth. Greek-key borders articulate the sides and base, while corresponding angular scrolls frame the upper front corners. Bands of stylized foliage and wave ornament enrich the stepped plinth, which rests on low bracket feet accented in red and gold.

The silvered dial carries black Roman numerals, an outer minute track, and contrasting dark hands beneath convex glass within a brass bezel. Two winding apertures serve the mechanical movement and striking train. Accessed through a hinged rear door, the brass movement bears the Coventry Astral mark and incorporates a coiled gong. The clock’s compact proportions and elaborate surface decoration give it the character of a miniature pavilion.

Measurements: 11" H × 7.25" W × 5" D. See less