02/02/2018
A fine German engraved gilt-copper ‘Türmchenuhr’, circa 1620
‘Türmchen’ means ‘small tower’ in German, and ‘Uhr’ means ‘clock’. Looking at this finely decorated piece, it doesn’t need a lot of imagination to see why this type of clock is defined by the term ‘small tower clock’. In early sixteenth-century Augsburg, a clockmaking tradition started that provided fine pieces for the very rich. The clockmaker’s guild in Augsburg had very strict rules defining what a clockmaker should be able to make before becoming a master. It resulted in the production of highly decorated fine pieces that ooze quality.
It becomes even clearer when one looks more closely at this piece that the maker worked with great attention and eye for detail. These clocks not only showed time but were marvels of technique and true status symbols. This is illustrated by the fact that Kings and members of the nobility are often portrayed with a clock or watch like this. This piece is a work of art, a status symbol, a piece of history and an object that belonged to an important person. Combining all these qualities, this clock would be a highlight in any interior.
https://gudemeis.com/en/collectie/a-south-german-gilt-copper-striking-and-alarm-turmchenuhr-table-clock-circa-1620/
