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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Mantle clock

Mantle Clock

Partially verified

This mantle clock is documented in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art under object number 2009.443. The timepiece is composed of mahogany wood and brass elements. It is attributed to the collaboration between the Lenzkirch Clock Factory, which is of German origin, and the American retailer Tiffany & Co., based in New York. The museum reports that the clock was created in America around 1901. The overall dimensions of the object are recorded as 40 centimeters in height, 22.9 centimeters in width, and 8.9 centimeters in depth. The visual presentation of the clock centers on an ornate brass faceplate with sweeping linear motifs that frame the circular dial, which displays Arabic numerals for the hours. The primary body of the clock is crafted from mahogany, featuring a curved design that rises from an arched base.

Mantle clock attributed to Lenzkirch Clock Factory and Tiffany & Co., circa 1901.
Mantle clock attributed to Lenzkirch Clock Factory and Tiffany & Co., circa 1901. — Cleveland Museum of Art. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
orbiscollectibles.com
Category
Clock · Mantle clock
Maker / attribution
Lenzkirch Clock Factory; Tiffany & Co.
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
2009.443
Source-reported date
1901
Source-reported place
America

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

Construction and Materials

The clock is constructed from a combination of mahogany and brass. The exterior structure consists of a mahogany wood case that forms the frame, providing support for the internal clockwork and the front plate. The overall dimensions of the piece are 40 centimeters by 22.9 centimeters by 8.9 centimeters.

The front of the clock is dominated by a substantial brass plate featuring decorative elements. The plate incorporates organic, flowing lines that mirror the contours of the mahogany frame. This brass component integrates the dial area and an arched opening at the bottom, contributing to the overall aesthetic of the mantle clock.

Evidence for this section
  • “brass, mahogany”
  • “Overall: 40 x 22.9 x 8.9 cm (15 3/4 x 9 x 3 1/2 in.).”

Attribution and History

This object is currently held within the permanent collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, identified by the accession number 2009.443. The museum documents the production of the clock to approximately 1901. It is attributed to a collaborative manufacturing process involving the German Lenzkirch Clock Factory and the American firm Tiffany & Co. of New York.

The museum record indicates that the manufacture of this specific timepiece took place in America. While the identity of the makers is linked to the historical record, no further technical or provenance details have been independently verified outside of the primary museum catalogue entry.

Evidence for this section
  • “Held by Cleveland Museum of Art (object no. 2009.443).”
  • “The museum record attributes this piece to Lenzkirch Clock Factory (German); Tiffany & Co. (America, New York, est. 1837) in America around 1901.”

Dial and Design

The face of the clock features a circular dial, which is mounted onto the brass decorative plate. The dial is printed with Arabic numerals to mark the hours, with hands present to indicate the time. The transition between the dial and the brass plate is finished with a circular bezel.

The visual design of the brass plate utilizes raised, curvilinear motifs located at the top and bottom of the frame, encircling the dial and the lower cutout. This design creates a cohesive visual effect that spans the length of the mahogany wood housing.

Evidence for this section
  • “brass, mahogany”
  • “dated 1901.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific type of escapement or movement mechanism used by the Lenzkirch Clock Factory in this model?
  • Are there any additional maker marks or internal signatures present on the movement that further clarify the collaboration between Lenzkirch and Tiffany & Co.?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Mantle Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerLenzkirch Clock Factory (German); Tiffany & Co. (America, New York, est. 1837)“Lenzkirch Clock Factory (German); Tiffany & Co. (America, New York, est. 1837), made in America, dated 1901.”
Materialsbrass, mahogany“brass, mahogany”
Dimensions40 x 22.9 x 8.9 cm“Overall: 40 x 22.9 x 8.9 cm (15 3/4 x 9 x 3 1/2 in.).”
Museum Number2009.443“object no. 2009.443”
Date1901“dated 1901.”

Visible details

  • Brass faceplate with decorative embossed curvilinear details
  • Mahogany housing with a curved silhouette
  • Circular white dial with Arabic numerals and dark hands
  • Open aperture in the brass plate near the base

Research qualifications

  • Specific technical movement details remain unverified
  • Attribution to Lenzkirch Clock Factory and Tiffany & Co. relies solely on the museum catalogue record

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

Consulted source

Mantle Clock

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 2ae4e37b1e

Terms in this record

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