Coral and Jade Koi Fish Mystery Clock

Design and Materials

The clock is designed with an emphasis on decorative natural materials, featuring a base carved from jade that evokes the form of a Chinese censer. The central decorative element is a branch of red coral extending from the center of the clock face.

A carnelian koi fish serves as the primary indicator for the time, positioned within the clock's pond. The pond includes a lotus flower decoration finished in blue lacquer. The composition utilizes a white enamel dial featuring gold-colored Arabic numerals arranged along the edge of the pond.

The source notes that the design draws inspiration from Eastern cultures and nature, which were popular motifs during the Art Deco period. The aesthetic aligns with the chinoiserie style.

Mechanism and Function

The object operates as a mystery clock, where the mechanism is responsible for rotating the central pond structure. As the pond rotates, the carnelian koi fish is moved along the path of the dial.

The current time is determined by the position of the fish relative to the static or rotating Arabic numerals placed around the perimeter of the pond. The movement mechanism is identified by an inscription reading "Lutz, France."

Provenance and Context

The source discusses the object in the context of other mystery clocks created during the Art Deco era. It mentions that a similar mystery clock of Chinese-influenced design, produced by Cartier using coral and jade, is held in the Cartier collection and was exhibited at the Grand Palais in Paris.

The source clarifies that this comparison is intended for descriptive reference and does not imply an attribution of the current clock to Cartier. The record serves as an educational summary of the object's features.