Viennese Enamel Mantel Clock
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This entire mantel clock is covered in intricate Viennese enamel
Key Features
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- An elegant Viennese enameled mantel clock of exceptional craftsmanship
- The entire exterior is covered in enamelwork synonymous with the skilled artisans of Austria
- Such quality works of Viennese enamel are in great demand today
- Circa 1870
- 4 3/4" wide x 4 3/4" deep x 9 1/4" high
Item Details
- Width:
4 3/4 Inches - Height:
9 1/4 Inches - Depth:
4 3/4 Inches - Period:
19th Century - Origin:
Other Europe
A small yet enormously captivating mantel clock decorated with the finest Viennese enamelwork to come out of the 19th century. A fantastic testament to the skilled artisans of Austria, this clock is decorated in the extremely labor intensive process of painted enamel. Whimsical scenes of voluptuous women draped in diaphanous robes and floating "putti," the cherub symbol of earthly love, are mounted on the four silver gilt sides of the case and the dome top. Delicate females, mythological characters and arabesque gilt work adorn the edges. The Roman numeral dial includes a winding apparatus and the key is attached ready to wind and set this darling clock in motion. Circa 1870 Small ornamental clocks such as this one were highly desirable during the 19th century. The enameled decoration gave added value and individuality, considering no two pieces were exactly alike. The forte of the Viennese enamelers was their success in following the trend set by the interior decorators of mansions and great public buildings with regard to color schemes and pictorial themes from classical mythology. Considering the highly skilled craftsmanship of the Viennese artisans, this ornamental work often surpassed the original Renaissance and rococo designs it emulated, making Vienna one of the most important European centers for decorative arts. References:The Price Guide to Collectable Clocks, 1985, Alan and Rita Shenton
