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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Figural mantel clock

Jaco Petit Porcelain Figural Clock

Partially verified

This figural clock features a porcelain composition of a knight on horseback mounted above an ornate clock case. The supporting clock base follows an ornate Rococo-style design, finished in deep cobalt blue and decorated with extensive gilding and scrolling elements. The circular dial, positioned centrally within the front of the case, features Roman numerals and delicate hands. A secondary porcelain base with pink tones and gilded accents provides the final foundation for the ensemble. The reverse of the unit exposes the clock mechanism, and markings present on the underside correspond to Jaco Petit production. This object combines a sculptural group with a functional timekeeping element, illustrating a production style attributed to the 19th-century French manufacturer.

Full view of the Jaco Petit porcelain figural clock featuring a knight on horseback.
Full view of the Jaco Petit porcelain figural clock featuring a knight on horseback. — Williamson Auction Gallery / Invaluable. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
orbiscollectibles.com
Category
Clock · Figural mantel clock
Maker / attribution
Jaco Petit
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
205354250
Source-reported date
19th century
Source-reported place
France

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

Figural Composition and Design

The clock is surmounted by a porcelain sculptural group depicting a knight on horseback. The figure is clad in detailed armor and wears a flowing cobalt blue cloak highlighted with gold.

The lower section of the object serves as the clock housing, modeled with a complex, scrolling Rococo-style outline. The body of the clock is finished in a deep cobalt blue porcelain ground, which is further enriched by gilt-painted scrolling forms that border the dial and the feet of the piece. Additional decorative depth is provided by the base, which incorporates soft pink tones.

Evidence for this section
  • “a dramatic figural composition of a knight mounted on horseback”
  • “The clock case below is formed in an ornate Rococo-style design, finished in deep cobalt blue with extensive gilt highlights and scrolling forms.”
  • “The base is executed in porcelain with soft pink tones and additional gilded accents”

Dial and Mechanics

The circular dial is set flush into the front of the porcelain case. It is printed with Roman numerals and paired with delicate hands for time indication. The dial is surrounded by decorative elements that integrate the timepiece into the porcelain architecture of the case.

The reverse of the clock contains the mechanical timekeeping assembly. The source notes that the clock mechanism is visible from the back, allowing for operation or access to the internal components.

Evidence for this section
  • “The circular dial is set within the front, featuring Roman numerals and delicate hands”
  • “The reverse reveals the clock mechanism”

Marks and Attribution

The attribution to the manufacturer Jaco Petit is based on visual characteristics observed on the underside of the piece. The source notes that markings located on the bottom are consistent with the known output of this maker. While these markings facilitate the classification of the clock, the specific history or model details are not provided.

The overall construction of the object, combining figural porcelain sculpture with a timepiece, is cited by the source as reflective of 19th-century French porcelain production. The auction description explicitly identifies the work as a probable Jaco Petit piece, noting that while evidence supports this classification, independent authentication is required.

Evidence for this section
  • “the underside bears markings consistent with Jaco Petit production”
  • “reflecting the artistry and craftsmanship of 19th century French porcelain.”
  • “Attribution and measurements describe the photographed example; independent type authentication remains research required.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific nature of the markings on the underside?
  • Does the internal clock movement bear any maker signatures or serial numbers?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Jaco Petit Porcelain Figural Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerJaco Petit“markings consistent with Jaco Petit production”
Period19th century“19th century”
Dimensions22 x 12 x 8 inches“22 x 12 x 8 inches”
Materialporcelain“porcelain”
OriginFrench“French porcelain”
CompositionKnight on horseback“a dramatic figural composition of a knight mounted on horseback”

Visible details

  • Knight figure wears cobalt blue cloak with gilt
  • Circular dial with Roman numerals
  • Base features pink tones with gilt accents
  • Clock case exhibits scroll-work forms

Research qualifications

  • Independent authentication of the Jaco Petit attribution remains required
  • The mechanical condition of the interior movement is not detailed

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

Consulted source

Jaco Petit Porcelain Figural Clock

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record adbdf25c1b

Terms in this record

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

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