Watch 1845 - 1860

This 19th-century watch, created by François Czapek, is a striking example of miniature portraiture. The gold case features a painted portrait of an unidentified man in military uniform, framed by intricate gilt floral designs. The watch, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, showcases the craftsmanship of miniature painting and the enduring tradition of using personal items as tokens of remembrance or status. Czapek, a noted watchmaker and enameler, produced this work during his prolific career spanning over six decades.