An Austrian late Biedermeier carved giltwood figural mantel clock

An Austrian late Biedermeier carved giltwood figural mantel clock, unsigned, probably Vienna, circa 1840, the circular two train bell striking movement with anchor escapement, the circular convex white enamel Arabic numeral dial with Arabic quarters to outer track and pierced brass hands set behind a hinged engine-milled convex glazed bezel, the case modelled as a Classical female reclining on a couch and reading a book raised on six tapered supports with pierced pendant gallery, over leaf edge-moulded platform base with turned feet, 30.5cm (12ins) high, 33cm (13ins) long, 13cm (5ins) deep.

Provenance: From the collection of the The Hon. Mrs. Daisy Fellowes of Donnington Grove, Berkshire, and thence by family descent.

Condition Report:
Marks, scratches, chips and abrasions consistent with age and use.
Overall the giltwood has a craquelure and a wash; the back has a dry ochre paint.
Along the edges there is some rubbing revealing the underlying terracotta and some small spots of gesso.
Lacking the right hand thumb and fingertips that hold the book, suggesting that the book has been detached and repaired in place.
The fretwork frieze has cracked and been repaired, in some places with visible glue; lacking some of the end sections of fretwork frieze.
There is gesso showing and with gaps between the giltwood supports under the clock.
Lacking half the giltwood swag under the clock.
The gilt metal palmettes to one end are possibly later.
The dial cover glass has some scratches. The enamel dial has scratches, and chips around the winding apertures.

The movement has survived in original condition with no visible evidence of alteration or significant replacements. The movement will require a clean/service as it is in dirty/neglected condition and there is no pendulum or key present.
Condition Report Disclaimer