Watch 1830 - 1840

This watch was made by P.A. Grasseli sometime between 1775 and 1875, with the case made of silver. The silver has been intricately worked, not only to form the watch case, but also to depict a pastoral scene on its face. Notice the figure reclining beneath a tree, with a dog standing guard. The whole scene is rendered in meticulous detail, achieved by chasing the silver. This involves carefully hammering the metal from the front, sinking the surface to create relief. The choice of silver is significant, as it suggests luxury and status. Timepieces like this were more than just functional objects; they were symbols of wealth, and crafted using specialized techniques. The amount of handwork involved speaks to a culture where skilled labor was highly valued, and where artistry was embedded even in everyday objects. The presence of the watch today speaks to our ongoing fascination with the intersection of craft, design, and the marking of time.