Tortoiseshell and Silver Clock

This antique Tortoiseshell and Silver Clock is a notable example of early 20th century craftsmanship, originating from London, United Kingdom. The primary material used in its construction is tortoiseshell, valued for its distinctive patterns and warm tones. The face of the clock is embellished with intricate silver piqué, a decorative technique in which silver is inlaid into the tortoiseshell. The sides are adorned with lion mask handles, enhancing its regal appeal. The clock is elevated on four silver feet, adding stability and elegance to its structure. The maker’s mark 'WC' is stamped inside, indicating its creation in 1910.

Condition Report

The condition of the Tortoiseshell and Silver Clock is impressive, with minimal indications of age-related wear. The tortoiseshell surface has preserved its rich, vibrant colours, and the silver piqué work remains intact and clearly visible. The silver elements, including the lion mask handles and feet, are hallmarked, attesting to their authenticity. This piece is a testament to the durability of the materials and the skill of the craftsperson, with all elements retaining their functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Dimensions

Weight: 340gm, Length: 5.5cm, Width: 5.2cm, Height: 9.8cm.

A Timepiece and Decorative Object

This clock originally functioned both as a timekeeping device and a decorative piece. Its dimensions suggest it was designed for placement on a desk or mantelpiece, where its details could be appreciated up close. The intricate silver piqué and lion mask handles not only served decorative purposes but also positioned the clock as a statement piece, drawing attention in any room it occupied.

Early 20th Century Design

Reflecting early 20th century design principles, this clock combines materials and motifs popular during the era. The use of tortoiseshell and silver is emblematic of the period, characterised by an appreciation for natural materials and detailed craftsmanship. The addition of lion mask handles lends the piece a classical touch, indicative of the era's fascination with historical motifs and artistic revivalism, bridging past influences with contemporary design.

Craftsmanship of Tortoiseshell and Silver

The crafting of this clock involved meticulous processes, particularly the application of silver piqué work. Tortoiseshell was carefully cut and polished to create a smooth, lustrous surface. Silver was then intricately inlaid, requiring precise control and skill to achieve the decorative patterns. The addition of silver lion mask handles and feet demonstrates an understanding of both form and function, ensuring that the piece is not only visually striking but also well-balanced and stable.

Crafted by WC

The maker's mark 'WC' is engraved on the clock, providing insight into its origin. While the full identity of 'WC' remains elusive, the craftsmanship and attention to detail suggest a highly skilled artisan. The hallmark indicates that the clock was made in London in 1910, during a vibrant period of artistic and cultural activity. This era was marked by a fusion of traditional techniques with emerging styles, and this piece exemplifies such a synthesis.

Collected by Enthusiasts of Tortoiseshell and Silver

Collectors are drawn to tortoiseshell and silver antiques for their unique aesthetic qualities and the high level of craftsmanship they represent. The combination of these materials, particularly with the use of piqué work, is highly regarded in the collecting community. Pieces like this clock, which include hallmarks, provide valuable historical context, enhancing their desirability. Collectors appreciate the insight these objects offer into past design trends and the technical prowess of their makers.