Clock
Retailer
Theodore B. Starr
(American, 1877 - 1923)
Manufacturer
Maker unknown
(European)
Datec. 1900
MediumSlate, bronze, other metals, glass
DimensionsOverall: 9 1/2 x 22 1/2 x 6 1/2in. (24.1 x 57.2 x 16.5cm)
ClassificationsT&E FOR TIMEKEEPING
Credit LineProctor Collection
Terms
Object numberPC. 730
DescriptionBlack marble w/ends supported by 2 bronze kneeling figuresOn View
On viewCollections
Copyright<a rel="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/"><img alt="Creative Commons License" style="border-width:0" src="https://i.creativecommons.org/l/by-nc/4.0/80x15.png" /></a><br />This work is licensed under a <a rel="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/">Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License</a>.
Label TextThe combination of decorations on this impressive mantle clock creates a sense of exoticism. Bronze and gilt bronze (ormolu) mounts are set against black marble. Allegorical representations of summer and winter illustrate the panels flanking the clock face. The left panel depicts a voluptuous woman leaning against a cornucopia and surrounded by lush foliage and a putto. The winter scene on the right features an older gentleman leaning against a barren tree. He and the putto pull their clothing tightly around them as they try to warm themselves by a small fire as an ominous bird keeps watch overhead.
The symbolism of the three-dimensional figures at the front corners of the clock is more perplexing. The figures, with their scouting stance, may be keeping watch for prey, as represented by the animal skin motif that surrounds the clock face. Like many fine quality clocks retailed in the United Sates at the end of the nineteenth century, this one may have been made in France of England.
ATD
