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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Cuckoo clock

Black Forest marquetry decorated cuckoo clock

Partially verified

Described by the auctioneer as a Black Forest marquetry decorated cuckoo clock, this wooden timepiece features an architectural pitched-roof case bordered with marquetry inlays and pierced foliate fretwork. Positioned above the dial is an arched aperture with an open door showing an automated cuckoo bird. The dark dial is set with applied Roman numerals and decorative pierced hands. Accompanied by two cast pinecone-form weights, hanging chains, and a pendulum, the clock case measures 16 inches high by 12.5 inches wide and 7 inches deep.

Front view of the Black Forest marquetry decorated cuckoo clock with weights, chains, and pendulum displayed below
Front view of the Black Forest marquetry decorated cuckoo clock with weights, chains, and pendulum displayed below — Clars Auctions. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.liveauctioneers.com
Category
Clock · Cuckoo clock
Maker / attribution
Not established
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
2206A
Source-reported date
Not established
Country
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 Architecture and Decoration

The timepiece is housed in an architectural case measuring 16 inches high by 12.5 inches wide and 7 inches deep. Described in the auction lot title as "A Black Forest marquetry decorated cuckoo clock," the facade features geometric marquetry banding framing the central dial panel.

A pitched roof with outward- and downward-pointing turned finials surmounts the structure. Carved foliate and grapevine fretwork brackets flank and underpin the case frame, while an upper arched aperture reveals a small bird figure behind an open door.

Evidence for this section
  • “A Black Forest marquetry decorated cuckoo clock”
  • “16"h x 12.5"w x 7"d”
  • “Geometric marquetry banding frames the central dial panel.”
  • “Pitched roof architectural case with outward and downward pointing turned finials.”
  • “Carved foliate and grapevine fretwork brackets flank and underpin the case frame.”
  • “Small bird figure positioned within the open upper cuckoo door aperture.”

Dial and Accompanying Components

The dial is described in the auction catalogue as featuring Roman numerals, set beneath the automated cuckoo bird complication.

The lot includes external components recorded by the auctioneer as a "pendulum and two pinecone weights." Visible observations record two cast pinecone-pattern weights displayed alongside chains and a disc-form pendulum.

Evidence for this section
  • “the dial with Roman numerals”
  • “with automated cuckoo bird”
  • “includes pendulum and two pinecone weights”
  • “Two cast pinecone-pattern weights displayed alongside chains and a disc-form pendulum.”

Cataloguing Context and Source Limitations

The listing provides no details regarding internal movement construction, mechanical maker, or running condition, stating explicitly: "Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog." The operational status of the automaton and movement remains unverified.

Geographic attribution to Germany in catalog records derives from the traditional Black Forest styling asserted in the lot title rather than recorded maker stamps or labels. Neither production dates nor maker markings are recorded in this source.

Evidence for this section
  • “A Black Forest marquetry decorated cuckoo clock”
  • “Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog.”

Open research questions

  • Does inspection of the internal movement or rear door reveal any manufacturer stamps, trademarks, or serial markings?
  • What movement type and duration (e.g., 1-day or 8-day brass plate mechanism with bellows) powers the clock and automaton?
  • What specific woods or veneers were used in the marquetry banding and carved fretwork?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Black Forest marquetry decorated cuckoo clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Dial numeralsRoman numerals“the dial with Roman numerals”
ComplicationAutomated cuckoo bird“with automated cuckoo bird”
Included componentsPendulum and two pinecone weights“includes pendulum and two pinecone weights”
Dimensions16"h x 12.5"w x 7"d“16"h x 12.5"w x 7"d”
Lot number2206A“Lot 2206A”
Estimate$100 - $150“Estimate $100 - $150”

Visible details

  • Pitched roof architectural case with outward and downward pointing turned finials.
  • Geometric marquetry banding frames the central dial panel.
  • Carved foliate and grapevine fretwork brackets flank and underpin the case frame.
  • Small bird figure positioned within the open upper cuckoo door aperture.
  • Two cast pinecone-pattern weights displayed alongside chains and a disc-form pendulum.

Research qualifications

  • Internal movement is not shown or described; operational condition and mechanical maker are unverified.
  • Geographic origin 'Germany' is traditionally inferred from the Black Forest style attribution in the source title rather than documented maker markings.

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

Consulted source

A Black Forest Marquetry Decorated Cuckoo Clock - Jul 18, 2026 | Clars Auctions In Ca

Reviewed 2026-10-21 · Record 414242b6fc

Terms in this record

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

Other cuckoo clock records