A FRENCH BLACK MARBLE MYSTERY CLOCK BY GUILMET

A FRENCH BLACK MARBLE MYSTERY CLOCK

BY GUILMET, LATE 19TH CENTURY

the brass drum eight day movement with an outside countwheel, striking on a bell, the backplate stamped 'GLT Brevette SGDG' over the serial number '347', the circular dial with Roman numerals, the case surmounted by a gilt spelter figure of a classical maiden supporting a crystal glass pendulum, with lion's mask ring handles, on paw feet

64.6cm high, 28cm wide

Catalogue Note

This fascinating clock, one of a series, was first designed and patented in 1867. The mystery lies in the fact there is no apparent impulse being received by the pendulum to keep it in motion. This is achieved by an imperceptible rotational movement of the platform on which the statue rests, with an impressive crank and stirrup escapement.