Clock - Earthenware - 1920-1930

Antique Liberty 1900–1930 Table Clock – Sculpture of a Child with a Dog – Painted Terracotta – Working

DESCRIPTION

Particular and fascinating antique table clock, presumably dating from the early decades of the 20th century (1900–1930), made in modeled and painted terracotta, with a suggestive sculptural composition depicting a child affectionately embracing a dog.

The work presents decorative characteristics linked to the Liberty style and to early 20th century European artistic production.

SCULPTURE

The upper part consists of a sculpture depicting a child with wavy hair and a melancholy expression, holding a dog with long ears in the arms.

The modeling of faces, hands, the animal’s fur and the folds of the clothing is particularly meticulous.

The surface features a brown coloration with a bronze patina, which enhances the plastic details and gives the whole piece an elegant and ancient appearance.

The composition expresses a strong sense of tenderness and represents an interesting example of decorative figurative sculpture.

BASE

The sculpture rests on a high terracotta pedestal with an antique-gilded finish.

The base features:

* Elegant vertical grooves.
* Ornamental relief decorations.
* Geometric elements and floral motifs.
* Shaped and widened base.
* Central housing for the clock movement.

The whole recalls the decorative taste spread between the late 19th century and the first decades of the 20th century.

MECHANICAL CLOCK

In the central part of the pedestal is inserted a mechanical clock with a circular dial, black Arabic numerals and shaped metal hands.

The movement is hand-wound using a key.

The clock is functional.

WARNING: the key needed for winding is not included in the sale.

The accuracy of timekeeping has not been verified for prolonged periods.

MAIN CHARACTERISTICS

* Item: table clock with decorative sculpture.
* Estimated period: 1900–1930.
* Style: Liberty / early 20th century.
* Material: modeled and painted terracotta.
* Subject: child with dog.
* Sculpture coloration: patinated brown with bronze effect.
* Base: antique-gilded finish.
* Movement: mechanical, hand-wound.
* Dial: Arabic numerals.
* Functioning: working.
* Key: not included.
* Manufacture: not identified.
* Provenance: not ascertained.

CONDITION

The object shows conditions compatible with its age and use, with signs of wear, small patina changes and wear of the painted finishes.

The sculpture preserves good legibility of both figurative and decorative details.

The clock is functioning with manual winding via key, not provided.

Any further peculiarities and preservation marks are documented in the photographs.

COLLECTOR'S INTEREST

An interesting piece for collectors of antique clocks, terracotta sculptures, early 20th century decorative art, and Liberty-style objects.

The particular depiction of the child with the dog, combined with the elegant base and the functioning mechanical movement, makes this clock a unique furnishing accessory for living rooms, studies, libraries and classic interiors.

Dating, stylistic attribution and manufacture are indicative and not certified.

The photographs are an integral part of the description.