A rare French gilt brass ‘retour d’Égypte’ carriage clock, circa 1870.

Description

Hieroglyphs

The different aspects of clocks are fascinating to me. Of course there is the timekeeping side of them, with special escapements and smart inventions to make clocks more precise. There are many different traditions that all have their own specific characteristics. And of course there is the decorative side of clockmaking which is important regarding this clock. In the second half of the nineteenth century there was quite a large production of French travel clocks. Many specialists worked separately on parts of the production process which kept quality up and prices relatively low. This repetitive way of working made many of these clocks look fairly similar. Therefore it is more special than many would realize to find a French travel clock with a unique case and decoration. Adding to the attraction is that the clock’s Egyptian theme is visual in both the decoration and the case design. And finally, it is the workmanship of the panels that makes this clock a very special object. It is amazing how precisely and sharply the panels depict Egyptian hieroglyphs, making each a little artwork on its own. The maker probably used depictions in books. But I like to imagine him or her walking up to the obelisk in the Place de La Concorde, to make sketches for these panels. Surely the design, the fine details and the quality of the workmanship will make sure that this beautiful clock will remain a fascinating piece to look at.

Ottoman numerals

The low-relief, patinated and silvered bronze dial features round cartouches with Ottoman numerals. The finely pierced hands are made of gilded brass. The chapter ring is flanked by palm trees and, above them, winged serpents. In the lower corners, next to the alarm subsidiary, are two classical Egyptian figures.

Rack striking

The movement is driven by two mainsprings and is of eight day duration. It is regulated by a platform anchor escapement in combination with a bimetallic balance wheel with adjusting screws. The clock has half-hour rack striking on a gong and has repeating on demand. The alarm mechanism also strikes on the gong.

Gilt case

The gilt case is inspired by an Egyptian temple, with tapered columns resting on pyramid-shaped bases. The case features exquisite made bronze panels on the rear and sides, inspired by hieroglyphs. The whole is surmounted by a handle.