Quarter-Striking, Musical Automaton Table Clock

This exquisite case features Gothic-style silvered arches against blue glass. The arch above the dial frames an automaton scene in which figures pass through a rural setting. The sides of the case display enameled scenes of townsfolk socializing near a monument. Automaton birds flutter around them. Beneath the dome, rotating glass rods resemble a waterfall. A fleet of ships encircles the falls.

Perigal likely designed this clock and made its movement for the Chinese Imperial court, although it was likely assembled in a Chinese workshop. The use and placement of the blue glass is highly unusual for London makers and is likely the work of Chinese craftsmen, perhaps using Peking glass. The case is made of padouk wood, which was used in Chinese workshops. The red paint of the dimensional curtains is also indicative of Chinese taste. This exquisite clock was part of the celebrated horological collection of Gustave Loup, a noted authority and collector of clocks made for the Chinese market.

Francis Perigal was Watchmaker to King George III (1738–1820) and is known for the elaborate automaton clocks and watches he supplied to the Turkish and Chinese markets. He often partnered with Markwick Markham for Eastern market timepieces. His work is part of many fine collections, including the Denison Collection and the Victoria and Albert Museum. A clock by Perigal similar to this example resides in Beijing’s Palace Museum.