Truly one of the finest 19th century carved wood Black Forest clocks we've had in ages, and with loads of slender delicate carvings, almost nothing damaged or lost. The 23" tall clock features woven baskets, an 8" tall rooster, a hen and an eagle intent upon the hen as prey. Rooster is at attention and in fight mode, ready to protect his darling hen. Flowers and long fronds, and even a bunch of carrots further decorate the clock in impossible slender details - and quite remarkable that only a tip of eagle's wing has been broken (and professionally reattached smoothly - just a thin line). Plus the clock mechanism works, complete with clock key and pendulum. Note: the clock key shown in photos ended up not fitting the 2 winder stems you see on the dial of the clock, so we're having to replace that. Pendulum is installed and it will continue to tick and create motion to the hands so we're sure it does work. Found it in France. All the enamel indices are in place, as are the hands. Large mantel clock, VERY Country French in feel - lighter wood and the farmyard feel of the baskets and chickens. Clock is 18" wide at base, about 23" tall, and has a 7" depth. Entirely carved of a single wood block, it is a true masterpiece. I didn't find a signature, however.
Very good to excellent condition throughout. As noted, clock works and runs, though we need to exchange that key shown with it (which came with it but does not fit the mechanism stems for clock or chime). The hand carved wood cabinetry is magnificent, so little damage it's quite incredible. You can see that the tip of one eagle wing was once broken and professionally restored, a nice job leaving only a thin line. One tail feather of the rooster has the tip chipped, but it looks fine even so. Surely a tip or two of delicate leaves might have a small chip, but so little as to disappear in the richness of all that carving. Both farmer's baskets are fine, and no legs missing on any of the 3 fowl. I might need to add a fireplace so I have one more mantel to fill! I do love this one!
