CRUCIFIX CLOCK WITH LEATHER TRAVELBOX Signed F.S. Ca. 1630 Germany

M&R203

CRUCIFIX CLOCK WITH LEATHER TRAVELBOX
Signed: F.S.
Circa 1630
Germany

Movement
The spring-driven, day-going movement of this crucifix clock is constructed between fire gilt-brass plates. It consists of going and striking trains. The going train has a spring barrel, stackfreed and verge escapement with balance. It can be adjusted by a steel regulator pin on an index with Arabic numerals. The striking indicates the hours fully on a bell. The backplate is marked by the clockmaker F.S.

Dial
The crucifix is surmounted by an engraved gilt brass sphere with a revolving silver chapter ring with Arabic hour numerals. The time is indicated by a fixed blued-steel hand.

Case
The engraved firegilt case of this crucifix clock has a base in which the movement is housed. It has a pierced gallery all around which serves as sound frets for the bell. The cross is situated on this base and carries a silver Jesus figure. It is flanked by two other figures, depicting Mary and the disciple John. There is a silver skull in front of the cross, a symbol of vanity. Below the sphere is a silver plaque with the letters INRI (Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum – Jesus King of the Jews). The movement can be accessed by opening the hinged base plate of the cross with a catch. The clock rests on four gilt brass bun feet.

Duration 1 day

Height 32 cm.
Diameter 14.5 cm.

Travelling case
The original wooden travelling case, which protects the clock, has a green coloured velvet lining and is covered on the outside with dark brown leather. It can be opened at the side which are locked by two delicate clasps.

Literature
-Klaus Maurice, Die Deutsche Räderuhr, Band II, p. 407 – 420.