Clock, c. 1789

The multiple timekeeping functions of this clock make it one of the most ambitious objects ever designed by Jean-Antoine Lépine, clockmaker to King Louis XVI of France. The clock face features twelve secondary clocks that show the time in various cities around the world, from Boston to Batavia (present-day Jakarta, Indonesia). The dial on the left shows the position of the sun with respect to the constellations of the zodiac, while the dial on the right indicates the time of sunrise and sunset. In keeping with the clock’s theme, the decorations are those associated with Apollo, the Greek sun god. The mask of Apollo radiates above the lyre-shaped white marble case, enhanced with gilt-bronze laurel branches and leaves.

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Jean-Antoine Lepine, Astronomical mantel clock (#928)
Details
Title
Clock
Artist Life
1720–1814
Role
Designer
Accession Number
88.88.1a-g
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These 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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