Silver Clocks

Impressive antique Austrian champlevé enamel, silver-gilt and lapis lazuli clock set Austrian, Late 19th century Clock: Height 91cm, width 37cm, depth 37cm Candelabra: Height 64cm, width 24cm, depth 24cm Clock case: Height 97cm, width 44cm, depth 41cm Candelabra case: 67cm, width 27cm, depth 27cm Crafted in Austria in the late 19th century, this magnificent three-piece clock set was most likely gifted to the Imperial Russian family by the Austro-Hungarian Royal family. Its design is inspired by various cultures and styles, whilst its high quality celebrates some of the best craftsmen of the late 19th century. Of a tiered pagoda shape, the clock is surmounted by an eagle, its wings spread wide landing atop a vibrant lapis lazuli ball. The eagle is most likely a reference to Turul, a mythological animal which is a symbol of Hungary. This bird of prey is also a popular feature within Turkish traditions. Within a canopy, supported on four sturdy lapis lazuli pillars two prominent silver-gilt bells are hanging. These are carved with various motifs such as acanthus leaf design and connect to the clock mechanism below. The bells ring informing its users of the time. All four sides of the piece are inset with a clock, an unusual feature on an object of this type and a testament to its highest quality. The inclusion of clocks on all sides signifies that the antique is aimed to be a centrepiece, admired from all sides. The dial is decorated using the champlevé enamelling technique, whereby ‘parcels’ are carved into the silver gilt and into which enamel is poured. The 12 numbers are coloured in black with a gold outline and are surrounded by a white circular background making them stand out and easy to read. The hour clock dial is cast in the form of a sun, while the minute hand is represented as the moon. The two motifs symbolise one’s bright and gloomy sides of existence. The four corners around the clocks are mounted with three-dimensional female figures dressed in traditional garments from around the world. For example, one figure is dressed in typical Turkish clothing...