Horloge c. 1790

This pocket watch was crafted by Firma Marchand Fils, its circular face a stark white canvas marked by the march of time. Encircling it, a ring of red gems. The circle, unbroken, is one of humanity's oldest symbols, representing eternity, completion, and the cyclical nature of existence. Think of the Ouroboros, the serpent eating its tail, a potent image found across cultures from ancient Egypt to Norse mythology. The rubies evoke blood, passion, and life force, adding depth to the symbolism. Consider mandalas, with their concentric circles and geometric patterns, used in spiritual practices to represent the cosmos and aid in meditation. These symbols recur throughout history, reflecting our collective unconscious and the enduring human quest for meaning. The ticking of this watch echoes the beating of our hearts, a reminder of our fleeting existence, urging us to seize each moment.