Design for a Clock in the Form of a Lyre 1770 - 1790

This anonymous design from the 18th century depicts a clock in the form of a lyre, a stringed musical instrument. The clock face is framed by elaborate ornamentation, including a wreath of leaves and a sunburst design. This design demonstrates the continued influence of classical motifs in Neoclassical art, and the integration of timekeeping into everyday life. The detail of the clock's construction, including the delicate lines and measurements, suggests this was a working design for a functional timepiece. This piece can be found at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY.