Wall Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
c. 1880
This wall clock is constructed from bronze, gilded bronze, and cloisonné enamel. Dating to around 1880, it was made in France, probably by the Paris-based firm L’Escalier de Cristal. The clock measures 94 × 40.6 × 22.9 cm (37 × 16 × 9 in.).
The object features an elongated gilded frame topped by an upright bracket with a pale blue enamel field, upon which rests a sculpted dark bronze dragon. Below, the circular clock housing is framed with elaborate gilded bronze mounts. The clock face is decorated with cloisonné enamel, displaying Chinese numbers alongside dragon and decorative motifs on a light blue background. The dragons in bronze and cloisonné represent traditional Chinese symbols of good fortune.
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.
Historical context
The clock was acquired in about 1880 for American railroad magnate William H. Vanderbilt for his mansion at 640 Fifth Avenue in New York. While most furnishings for the residence were produced by Herter Brothers, selected artworks were imported from abroad. The clock served as a central adornment in the Japanese Parlor, an exotic interior designed by Herter Brothers that deliberately contrasted with the European historical styles throughout the rest of the mansion. Vanderbilt resided in the home for three years before his death in 1885.
Physical characteristics
- Material
- Bronze, gilded bronze, and cloisonné enamel
- Dimensions
- 94 × 40.6 × 22.9 cm (37 × 16 × 9 in.)
Technical characteristics
- Maker recorded
- Probably made by L’Escalier de Cristal (1802–1923), Paris
- Place recorded
- France
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
- Wall Clock
- Museum object number
- 2008.491
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.