Chinoiserie Art Deco clock

Dimensions: H x W x D: 27 x 34 x 12 cm

Description:
A stele rises from the centre of a stepped base made of green serpentine. The bezel is set flush into the stone. Behind the glass we see the rectangular dial with black numerals on a golden background. The fact that the glass is fixed and cannot be opened forwards, as is usually the case, means that the finely painted hour numerals have been beautifully preserved. The slight age-related colour changes in the gold are harmonious and authentic.

Two Chinese monks sit on the steps to the left and right of the stele, seemingly engrossed in conversation. Their black robes, which reach down to their feet, are decorated with gold embroidery and lined in red at the hands, feet and neck.
The relaxed posture of the two men, the matching robes and the symmetrical sitting position to the left and right of the stele create a harmonious and harmonious overall composition.

The stele contains a clockwork by Duverdrey & Bloquel with a running time of 8 days.
Duverdrey & Bloquel was one of the leading manufacturers of carriage clocks at the time. The company was founded in 1867 by Albert Villon and specialised early on in the manufacture of carriage clocks. Paul Duverdrey joined the business in 1887 and after the death of Albert Villon in 1910, Joseph Bloquel took over his position.
The movements were stamped with the full company name, with the abbreviation D&B or, as in this case, with the company symbol, the walking lion.

Two different models of this motif were produced. In addition to the clock offered here with the two seated monks, there was also a model with two standing monks carrying the clockwork. A version of the latter is part of the collection of the Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad. Both clocks are extremely rare, and I have never seen the model offered here in the art trade before.

Condition:
Very beautiful, authentic condition of stone, bronze and painting. The movement has been overhauled and runs reliably and accurately.

Price: 4500,-€