Bidspirit auction | TABLE CLOCK OF THE PRAGUE

TABLE CLOCK OF THE PRAGUE TYPE, SIGNED BERNARD BILSWAGNER - Central Europe (Prague?) ca 1760–1790 A representative table clock in a walnut case of the Prague type with the characteristic bombé front and sides, an architectural superstructure, and rich cast and gilded bronze mounts in Rococo décor, with side handles and a moulded base on volute feet. 30×43×16 cm. A large brass dial with an engraved and partially gilded centre plate, signed Bernard Bilswagner. Chapter ring with Roman numerals, pierced steel hands. In the upper part above the main dial, three subsidiary dials with calendar and strike adjustment. Spring-driven movement between plates, rear access through a glazed door, hourly and quarter-hour strike on a bell. The case type corresponds to the production of Prague clockmakers’ and cabinet-makers’ workshops. The signature Bernard Bilswagner probably identifies the maker of the dial or the mechanical parts (of Western European, probably Dutch origin), which were commonly fitted into locally made cases in the 18th century. Condition A.