Miniature Striking Chinese Table Clock

This is a fine example of a clock made in China for the local market, to replace European imports. This became a growing industry in the 19th century, particularly with the emergent middle class. Chinese workshops continued to copy elements of European clocks, including the shape of this gilt-brass case. It employs a duplex escapement and a European-looking “nonsense” signature engraved on the back plate. Nonsense signatures that looked European were added by some Chinese workshops to trick the buyer into believing that the clock was European-made, thereby increasing its value.