Barbot/Mentmore Clock c.1770

George III double-faced automation timepiece.
The 26.6 cm/10½ inch enamel dial signed Barbot London and the back with a similar 24 hour dial incorporating seconds, minutes and calendar dials, the movement in a drum-shaped case surmounted by an urn set with ram head handles, the dial framed by polychrome flowerheads and the sides with pierced giltmetal frets. The clock case and urn stand on the back of a gilt stag with spread antlers, each of its flanks bearing revolving Catherine wheels of red and white brilliants.  The later ebonised base has a boulle panel and bearded masks

This clock is a very rare George III timepiece because it has automata. The elaborate gilt stag would suggest that it was probably made for the Oriental market. Although during the Ching Dynasty (1644-1911) it was forbidden for makers to sign their products, the clock shares the characteristics of known work by Cox, which  have similar intricate mechanical features and elaborate designs.

The clock has to be wound twice a week, to maintain an accurate time, and runs for eight days. 

Clocks