H4282.1773

Gilt & ceramic Victorian clock From the History Information Station: Object: Clock, gold-plated metal frame with Sevres porcelain panels. French, circa 1885. Marked with English retailer's name, "B & C, Paris and London, Best Warranted." History: A decorative shelf clock was the centerpiece of the Victorian parlor mantel. Even in homes built without fireplaces people usually hung shelves on the parlor wall at about mantel height and decorated them with a clock, some doilies and photographs. In its original home, this clock probably stood before a mirrored overmantel, flanked by porcelain urns or statuary. A clock this elegant was far too expensive for most consumers, who usually chose more modest clocks with brass instead of gilding and painted wood or metal instead of porcelain.