Table Clock, Late 18th C.
Mantel Clock, 19th C.
Reading Time: 2:25 min
Table Clock,
Late 18th Century
General
Table clock (Tischzappler), late 18th century, South German. This type represents a transitional form between the late Baroque and early Classical periods.
Case – Overall Form
The case is tall and flat, with a strongly sculptural front. Its outline follows a flowing, organic contour reminiscent of Baroque ornamental frames.
Front
The front is entirely dominated by rich relief decoration. Rocaille and foliate motifs surround the centrally placed dial, creating a highly decorative appearance.
Main Body
The body is made of carved wood, likely originally finished or partially gilded. The design focuses on the frontal display, while the sides and rear remain comparatively simple.
Base and Plinth
A slightly projecting base provides stability. It is visually integrated into the overall ornamental composition rather than expressed as a separate architectural element.
Decoration and Materials
The case features carved floral and rocaille ornament. Traces of original surface treatment, possibly gilding or polychromy, may once have enhanced the relief.
Dial
Circular dial set into the centre of the composition.
Chapter Ring
A chapter ring with Roman numerals provides a clear and structured time display.
Viewing Pendulum
A front (visible) pendulum is present and is a defining feature of this type.
Pendulum Aperture
The pendulum is integrated into the front and swings in front of the dial, without a separate architectural opening.
Movement
Verge movement, typical of late 18th-century clockmaking.
Use and Placement
Intended for domestic interiors, the clock would have been placed on a table, commode, or console. The visible pendulum added a dynamic visual element to the room.
Timekeeping
12-hour display; typical running duration requiring regular winding.
Mantel Clock, 19th century
(Anton Huber, Klagenfurt)
General
Mantel clock, 19th century, signed Anton Huber in Klagenfurt. Produced in Klagenfurt, a regional centre of craftsmanship.
Case – Overall Form
The case is conceived as a sculptural composition in cast bronze, designed as a naturalistic rose bush into which the clock is integrated. Its free, organic form contrasts with more architectural clock designs.
Front
The front is dominated by the centrally set circular dial, surrounded by finely modelled roses and foliage. The composition resembles a relief-like natural scene.
Main Body
The main body is cast in bronze and shaped as an organically growing stem with branching floral elements. The asymmetrical arrangement enhances its decorative character.
Base and Plinth
The clock rests on a flattened base designed as part of the naturalistic composition, providing stability while remaining visually integrated.
Decoration and Materials
Cast bronze with partial gilding highlights individual blossoms and details. The contrast between dark patina and gilt accents enhances the sculptural quality.
Dial
Circular enamel dial with a clear and legible design.
Chapter Ring
A refined chapter ring with Roman numerals structures the display.
Centre (Date Ring)
A centrally positioned date ring provides an additional function beyond timekeeping.
Viewing Pendulum
A pendulum is present and partially visible in the lower section.
Movement
Mechanical movement (exact type not specified), typical of 19th-century mantel clocks.
Striking Mechanism
Quarter striking (4/4) on tone springs (gong springs), sounding at each quarter hour and on the hour.
Inscriptions / Signatures
Signed: Anton Huber in Klagenfurt.
Use and Placement
Intended for refined domestic interiors, the clock would have been placed on a mantelpiece, console, or table, serving both as a timepiece and a decorative showpiece.
Timekeeping
12-hour display with an additional date indication and quarter-hour striking.