Bidspirit auction | A RARE CASED FRENCH ENAMEL

A RARE CASED FRENCH ENAMEL AND GILT-METAL CLOCK WITH ELEPHANT AUTOMATON, 18TH CENTURY - Of unusual form, the clock is set within a cased presentation box, the central figure modeled as a richly caparisoned elephant in white enamel with gilt harness and saddlecloth inset with red reserves, supporting a small circular enamel dial with Roman numerals. The elephant flanked on either side by figures of armored guards in parcel-gilt and enamel, each standing upon domed bases decorated with figural reserves. The ensemble is mounted on a blue enamel plinth and housed in its original fitted case of wood and velvet-lined interior. French enamel automaton and figural clocks of the 18th century are exceedingly rare, often produced in Geneva or Paris workshops for export to the Ottoman and Indian markets, where exotic motifs such as elephants symbolized power and luxury. This example, retaining its original casket, exemplifies the fusion of European horology and decorative taste with Orientalist design. Dimensions: Case: 7 1/2 x 12 1/4 x 4 1/4 in., (19 x 31 x 11 cm.) Conditions: Wear and small losses to enamel throughout, particularly at the base reserves. Small chips and cracks are consistent with age. Dial intact with some hairlines. Case with age wear and losses to the veneer, hinges are fragile. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All lots are sold ”as-is”, refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions offers in-house shipping. In case we can not accommodate a shipping request, a list of additional shippers will be provided. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All lots are sold ”as-is”, refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions offers in-house shipping. In case we can not accommodate a shipping request, a list of additional shippers will be provided.