Clock · Automaton carriage clock
Reported as dating to circa 1890, this French carriage clock features a polished brass double corniche-style case crowned by an upper glazed vitrine. Within the upper display, an automaton bird modeled with real feathers sits perched on rockwork among artificial foliage. The dealer reports that the bird automaton rotates and raises its head on the hour or on demand. Below, a white porcelain dial displays time using black Roman numerals and Breguet-style hands, positioned above an alarm-setting subdial. The dealer notes an eight-day movement providing hour and half-hour bell striking alongside an alarm mechanism.
Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.
The object features a polished brass double corniche-style case. The design incorporates an upper glazed vitrine intended for the display of an automaton.
A folding brass carrying handle is mounted to the top of the upper glazed vitrine.
The automaton component consists of a miniature bird modeled with real feathers, positioned on an elevated rockwork setting amongst artificial foliage.
The dealer reports that the bird rotates and raises its head at the strike of each hour, with the capability to perform on demand.
The primary time display utilizes a porcelain dial with black Roman numerals. A subsidiary subdial is positioned on the face for the configuration of the alarm.
The movement is described as an eight-day mechanism providing an hour and half-hour bell strike alongside an alarm function.
| Field | Source-reported value | Source quotation |
|---|---|---|
| Case Style | Double Corniche Case | “French Double Corniche Case Automaton Carriage Clock” |
| Movement Duration | 8-day movement | “8-day movement with an hour and half-hour bell strike and alarm” |
| Automaton Function | Rotating bird that raises its head at the hour and on demand | “the charming bird rotates and raises its head at the strike of each hour and performs on demand” |
| Dial Material | Porcelain dial with Roman numerals | “The time displays on a porcelain dial with black Roman numerals with a subsidiary dial to control the alarm feature.” |
| Dimensions | 10-1/2″ High x 4″ Wide x 3-1/2″ Deep | “10-1/2″ High x 4″ Wide x 3-1/2″ Deep” |
| Date of Origin | Circa 1890 | “Circa 1890” |
| Dimensions | 10-1/2 inches high by 4 inches wide by 3-1/2 inches deep | “10-1/2″ High x 4″ Wide x 3-1/2″ Deep” |
| Reported Date | circa 1890 | “Circa 1890” |
Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.
Reviewed 2026-10-22 · Record b61ba530c1
Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.
