Rare French Quarter-Chiming Table Clock with Wizard Automaton

Description:

Rare French Quarter-Chiming Table Clock with Wizard Automaton, c. 1870, the black marble case with bronze figure of a boy dressed as a wizard, his right arm articulated at the shoulder for lateral and vertical movements, standing before a nest of four bells, which he strikes with a hammer on the quarter hours to play a tune, with six-inch dia. silvered brass dial with Roman numerals and pierced latticework, gilt bezel with beveled glass, brass ball feet and eight-day, spring-powered, three-train movement chiming quarters and striking the hours on a gong, ht. 25 in.

Note: The creation of figures capable of playing the instruments they are portrayed with has been one of the oldest dreams of automaton makers. Originating with the Quarter Jack figures of the 16th century, the mechanical art form achieved its most perfect expression in the work of Jaquet-Droz and Peter Kintzing. Automata musicians in the 19th century appear occasionally on clocks such as this one. Although more modest than its ancestors, the connection between the mechanical and the magical arts is hinted at humorously by the figure's costume. A related Wizard clock is illustrated in Mystery, Novelty and Fantasy Clocks by Derek Roberts, on the back cover and p. 213.
Estimate $30,000-50,000

No significant repairs or replacements, some adjustment needed with nest of bells, movement running and automaton functioning properly.

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