Automaton Clock in the Shape of a Lion
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
c. 1630
This automaton clock in the shape of a lion is a decorative timepiece produced around 1630 in Augsburg, Germany. The object features a rectangular molded base elevated on turned feet, supporting a sculpted recumbent lion on its upper surface. A round clock dial is mounted on the front face of the lower plinth, featuring hands and marked chapter rings surrounded by engraved or etched metalwork.
The clock is constructed from gilt bronze, ebony, and metal. The lion figure atop the base is cast and chased with a textured mane and coat, exhibiting a gilded finish that contrasts with the dark ebony housing beneath. The piece measures 20.3 × 12.7 × 22.9 cm (8 × 5 × 9 in.).
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Physical characteristics
- Material
- Gilt bronze, ebony, and metal
- Dimensions
- 20.3 × 12.7 × 22.9 cm (8 × 5 × 9 in.)
Technical characteristics
- Maker recorded
- Augsburg, Germany
- Place recorded
- Germany
Identification
- Source note
- Transcribed from the Art Institute of Chicago collection record for this single object; how far it represents a wider collectible type has not been independently verified.
- Museum object name
- Automaton Clock in the Shape of a Lion
- Museum object number
- 1990.194.2
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.