Dutch Standing Clock by Abel de Groot
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1740–50
This Dutch standing clock is attributed to the period circa 1740–50 and is signed on the dial by the maker Abel de Groot of Amsterdam. Measuring 290 cm in height, the clock features an elaborate movement with double striking capabilities, a calendar mechanism, and a sun and moon phase indicator.
The dial displays Roman numerals and is positioned above a painted metal plate featuring a maritime scene designed to move in synchronization with the pendulum. The clock case is constructed from a pine base with walnut veneer, complemented by intricate maple and mahogany inlay work. Decorative elements include carved wood details, lion-form feet, and a summit arrangement consisting of a central gilded figure of Atlas flanked by two trumpeting angels.
One of the trumpeting angels is reported to be missing its trumpet.
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.
Technical characteristics
- Date
- circa 1740–50
- Type
- Standing clock
- Maker
- Abel de Groot Amsterdam
- Dimensions
- 290×74×36 cm
- Construction
- Pine base with walnut covering, maple and mahogany inlay
- Dial features
- Roman numeral dial
- Place recorded
- Netherlands
- Summit elements
- Carved gilded Atlas figure and two trumpeting angels
- Maker / attribution
- Abel de Groot
- Included accessories
- 1 winding key, 1 clock case key, 2 pendulums
Design
- Visible features
- • Case features carved lion feet at the base • Summit adorned with a central Atlas figure • Includes a painted metal plate showing a seascape • Dial indicates Roman numerals
- Movement and Dial
- The dial is characterized by Roman numerals and bears the signature of the maker, Abel de Groot, located in Amsterdam. The movement is complex, incorporating a double striking function, a calendar mechanism, and an indicator for the sun and moon phases, indicating a high level of horological integration for its period. Situated beneath the primary dial is a painted metal plate that illustrates a seascape. This artistic component is connected to the internal mechanism and is synchronized to move in rhythm with the oscillation of the pendulum, integrating visual display with timekeeping. Two pendulums are provided with the clock.
- Provenance and Condition
- The item is listed as Lot 822 by the Nagyhazi Gallery and Auction House. The information provided confirms the clock's physical dimensions and the set of included accessories, specifically one winding key, one case key, and two pendulums, which are essential for the maintenance and operation of the double-striking and calendar features. The auction description notes specific physical attributes and condition details, such as the missing trumpet on one of the decorative angels. The clock is described as Dutch in origin, reflecting the regional style attributed to the mid-18th century.
- Case Construction and Decoration
- The clock case stands 290 cm tall, constructed on a base of pine wood. Inlay work using maple and mahogany woods adds decorative complexity to the surface of the trunk and pedestal sections. The architecture of the case is supported by carved lion feet. The hood is heavily ornamented with carved details, topped by a prominent gilded wooden sculpture of Atlas carrying the world. Flanking this figure are two carved, gilded angels depicted with trumpets, although one of these instruments is no longer present.
Identification
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: One angel figure is missing its trumpet
- Research required: Functional status of the double striking and sun and moon movement is not specified