South German Biedermeier Picture Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1830/40
This South German Biedermeier picture clock, dating to approximately 1830/40, features a frame measuring 90 x 95 x 8 cm. The exterior is composed of parcel ebonized and brass-mounted wood, characterized by a pediment finial and half-columns flanking both sides of the central scene.
The front panel depicts an oil painting on wood of the Schillerplatz in Stuttgart, including the Stiftskirche, the Fruchtkasten, and figural staffage. The integrated clock mechanism is identified as a later skeletonized anchor movement with an eight-day running duration and a bell-striking mechanism. The current condition is reported to include signs of age, including restoration, added components, and wear, with the auction description noting that the movement requires an overhaul.
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 1830/40
- Type
- Picture clock
- Maker
- Not recorded
- Movement
- Skeletonized anchor movement with 8 day duration
- Dimensions
- 90 x 95 x 8 cm
- Place recorded
- South Germany
Design
- Visible features
- • Case features two flanking half-columns finished in black • Dial integrated into the painting at the tower of the Stiftskirche • Brass wreath ornaments applied to the upper corners of the frame • Back side reveals the wooden panel structure and movement winding access
- Movement and Mechanism
- The clock is powered by a skeletonized anchor movement, which provides an eight-day running time. It includes a strike train that operates on a bell. The source identifies this movement as a later addition or modification to the case rather than the original component of the Biedermeier frame. The movement is currently in a state that requires technical intervention. The auction house reports that the mechanism must be overhauled to restore full functionality.
- Condition and Provenance
- The object shows clear signs of age, characterized by the auction house as including damages, restorations, and additions. These physical changes indicate that the assembly has undergone maintenance or alterations during its history, consistent with the reported age of the item. The piece has a recorded provenance associated with a private collection based in Stuttgart. No further historical ownership details are provided in the documentation.
- Cabinet and Pictorial Panel
- The object is a picture clock designed as a rectangular frame constructed from various woods. It features a parcel ebonized finish accented by brass mounts, a pediment finial, and decorative half-columns positioned on both sides. The frame holds an oil-on-panel painting that represents a view of the Schillerplatz in Stuttgart, specifically depicting the Stiftskirche and the Fruchtkasten, accompanied by figures. The structural composition of the frame incorporates a simple, straight-edged pediment design at the top and vertical column supports. The pictorial surface integrates the clock face into the architecture of the depicted Stiftskirche tower, allowing the timekeeping function to blend into the landscape scene. The rear side of the object exposes the wooden support frame and the central access point for the clock movement.
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: The movement is described as a 'later' skeletonized anchor type, suggesting it may not be original to the cabinet
- Research required: The extent of 'additions' and 'restorations' mentioned in the condition report is not specified