French Rare Lyre Form Mystery Clock
This elegant lyre form mystery clock is crafted in ebony with beautiful gilt bronze ormolu. The raised plinth base is partly encased with classical gilt acanthus leaf ormolu. From the base, the lyre form rises and supports the elaborate pendulum configuration. The front of the lyre is embellished with lovely gilt ormolu of elongated cornucopia issuing floral bouquets and long fern fronds accented by three flower blossoms.
Centering the lyre is the pendulum configuration comprising a cast brass world globe that serves to display the time on Roman numerals with moon hands, and also to house the movement. An 8-day pinwheel escapement powers the mystery movement and strikes a bell at the hour and half-hour. Rising from the globe are the lyre ‘strings’ adorned with pretty florals topped by a large decorative piece depicting a graceful maiden among swirls and against a radiating background. Perhaps she is a mythological muse. The entire configuration appears to rest freely in the center.
This rare and wonderful mystery clock bears a full restoration and a one-year warranty.
25″H x 11″W x 7″D
Circa 1865
Original Price $17,500