Watch 1725 - 1755

This small, round watch, made by Gridin sometime in the 1700s, presents a complex interplay of form and narrative. The monochrome palette emphasizes the scene’s intricate composition, which seems to be a classical grouping of figures. The sphere of the watch face is densely populated. Note how the bodies are arranged in a tight pyramidal structure, creating a sense of dynamic tension within the limited space. The artist masterfully uses the curved surface to distort and compress the figures, challenging our perception and destabilizing traditional notions of form. The material and shape of the object are critical. The watch’s circular form suggests cyclical time. While the figures and composition create a tension between the classical and baroque ideals, the watch asks us to consider how we experience narrative and temporality. Ultimately, the watch's form isn't just aesthetic. It is fundamental to its meaning.