Hobbies And Interests
Instructions
As a smaller antique, mantel clocks are designed for placement on shelves or, as their name indicates, on a mantel above a fireplace. Their small size allows for portability and ease of placement in tight spaces.
Mantel clocks are made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, marble, bronze, wood and ceramics. Gold plating is common on mantel clocks, as are intricate paintings, figurines and sculptures. Sometimes the figurine may be even larger than the clock face. The surface of the clock dial is typically made of enamel. Often, the dials get chipped over time and cracks can be visible.
Antique mantel clocks are not meant to hang on a wall. As they are meant to stand alone, the base of the clock typically has feet, claws or a supportive structure. The base may be wide or very thin, but it will sit without any need for support.
These clocks often have elaborate shapes and detail work, such as the steeple style, which has a triangular shaped face and column structures reminiscent of church steeples. They also may have a rounded top with a rectangle-shaped bottom, such as a beehive clock. Other styles include gothic, Egyptian and rococo.
To locate the name of the clock maker, look inside the rear door, on the framing, and at the back of the clock, where you may find a series of numbers or letters or a company name. An antique dealer or antique book can also help you learn where your clock originated and its value.