Object Description
Large Orientalist musical picture clock after Krafft
Continental, Mid-19th Century
Height 111cm, width 112cm, depth 16cm
This remarkable Orientalist musical picture clock, crafted in mid-19th century Europe, was designed specifically for the Ottoman market.
The centerpiece is a beautifully painted metal panel, inspired by the work of Johann Peter Krafft (Austrian, 1708–1856). It depicts a scene based on ‘Zrínyi’s Charge from the Fortress of Szigetvár’, Krafft’s 1825 masterpiece illustrating the 1566 Ottoman siege in Hungary. Unlike the original, this interpretation uses softer pastel tones, creating a dreamy, ethereal atmosphere rather than a dramatic one. The artist’s exceptional talent is evident in the meticulous details seen on all parts of this painting, from architectural details to the figures’ faces.
The painting is elegantly framed in an ornately carved giltwood surround, which features an integrated clock. The Rococo-inspired decoration, characterized by C-scrolls and floral patterns, adds a touch of opulence to the piece. The clock’s white enamel dial, adorned with black Roman numerals, serves as both a practical and decorative focal point.
On the reverse side, an old paper label reveals the musical selections included into the clock’s mechanism, further enhancing its appeal.
Combining fine art, intricate craftsmanship, and musical ingenuity, this extraordinary antique represents a rare and collectible treasure.