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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Figural mantel clock

19th Century Meissen Porcelain Figural Clock

Partially verified

This 19th-century mantel clock features a case modeled in Meissen porcelain, characterized by a Rococo-inspired aesthetic. The structure is heavily embellished with applied floral elements rendered in vibrant enamel colors, complemented by gilt detailing throughout. The central dial is integrated into the porcelain body, displaying Roman numerals and ornate hands, encased within a decorative gilt border. Sculptural cherub figures are positioned around the dial, providing a narrative and decorative focus to the piece. Hand-painted floral sprays and detailed molding decorate the remainder of the porcelain housing, extending to the base. The clock includes an open-back configuration designed to allow access to the internal movement.

Full front view of the 19th-century Meissen porcelain figural mantel clock featuring cherubs and applied floral decorations.
Full front view of the 19th-century Meissen porcelain figural mantel clock featuring cherubs and applied floral decorations. — Williamson Auction Gallery / Invaluable. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
orbiscollectibles.com
Category
Clock · Figural mantel clock
Maker / attribution
Meissen
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
205354244
Source-reported date
19th century
Source-reported place
Germany

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case Construction and Design

The clock is constructed from Meissen porcelain, modeled into a complex, asymmetrical form described as Rococo-inspired. The exterior surface is extensively decorated with three-dimensional applied flowers, colored in enamel pigments, which cover much of the front face. The base and structural accents are highlighted with gilt detailing, providing contrast to the floral motifs.

Three sculpted cherub figures are incorporated into the porcelain frame, arranged around the circular aperture for the clock dial. Further visual interest is created by hand-painted floral sprays and a bird motif situated on the front of the base. The design is intended to serve as a decorative object, utilizing the sculptural capabilities of the porcelain medium to create a narrative composition.

Evidence for this section
  • “The case is beautifully modeled in a Rococo-inspired form, adorned with applied flowers in vibrant enamel colors”
  • “Surrounding the central clock dial are finely sculpted cherubs in playful poses”
  • “The porcelain body is further embellished with hand-painted floral sprays”

Dial and Movement Access

The central dial features black Roman numerals applied against a lighter ground, paired with ornate metal hands. The dial is framed by a decorative gilt bezel, which serves to integrate the mechanical component into the decorative porcelain housing. The numerals are accompanied by a minute track inscribed around the outer edge of the dial plate.

The rear of the clock case is open, providing direct access to the internal timekeeping movement. This construction is consistent with the standard methods used for porcelain mantel clocks of the 19th century, allowing for the servicing and winding of the clock without dismantling the fragile porcelain housing. The integration of the movement into the porcelain shell remains a primary feature of this object's design.

Evidence for this section
  • “The dial features Roman numerals and ornate hands, framed within a decorative gilt border.”
  • “The open back reveals the clock mechanism, consistent with traditional construction of the period.”

Documentation and Attribution

The object is identified as a 19th-century creation from the Meissen manufactory, based on information provided in the source auction listing. The dimensions of the piece are recorded as 15x10x6. The auction record notes the necessity for further research to independently verify the factory attribution and the current state of the internal mechanism.

The auction house provided documentation for this specific item under the identification number 205354244. There are no associated manufacturer catalogue numbers recorded for this specific piece, as none have been transcribed from verified archival editions.

Evidence for this section
  • “exceptional 19th century Meissen porcelain clock”
  • “Attribution and measurements describe the photographed example; independent type authentication remains research required.”
  • “Listing object ID 205354244”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific manufacturer mark located on the porcelain base?
  • What is the technical origin and maker of the internal clock movement?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for 19th Century Meissen Porcelain Figural Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerMeissen“renowned German manufactory”
Date19th century“19th century Meissen porcelain clock”
MaterialPorcelain“Meissen porcelain”
DecorationApplied flowers and cherubs“richly decorated with floral elements and charming cherub figures”
DialRoman numerals“dial features Roman numerals”
DesignRococo-inspired“The case is beautifully modeled in a Rococo-inspired form”
Listing ID205354244“205354244”

Visible details

  • Applied porcelain flowers and foliage adorn the entire frame
  • Three separate cherub figures are integrated into the sculptural composition
  • Painted bird motif featured on the lower front section
  • Gilt-rimmed clock dial with black Roman numerals

Research qualifications

  • Independent confirmation of the Meissen factory attribution is required
  • Internal movement details and working condition are not verified

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

19th Century Meissen Porcelain Figural Clock

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record a27b59ff0e

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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