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Gift of John W. Ittmann in memory of Helen Benton Minnichexpand_more P.75.13.7
This print originated in Blois, a French city famed for its watchmakers and enamelers. Patrons typically selected a watch subject from a catalogue of miniature designs, then relied on enamel painters to add color. Religious scenes like this Holy Family Visited by Angels were common. For the enameled band around the side of the watch--the hole is for attaching a metal ring--this print offered a choice of twisted ribbons, crowns, or putti. Watches were more decorative than functional before 1675; that year the balance spring was introduced and timekeeping greatly improved.
This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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