Table clock

Art Historical Context

This exquisite table clock, crafted by German maker Karl Schmidt around 1600, exemplifies the of early modern horology during the late Renaissance. Fashioned from copper gilt—a technique where a thin layer of gold is applied over copper for a luxurious sheen—it stands just 11¼ inches tall, making it a perfect tabletop ornament for affluent households. Gilding not only enhanced its visual splendor but also protected the metal, ensuring durability for a functional timepiece. The clock's decorative motifs feature men and dogs, likely rendered in intricate relief or sculptural forms that blend Re...