Two designs for watch-cases c. 1765 - 1780

This anonymous design from the 18th century depicts two elaborate watch-cases with jeweled trim. The artist utilizes watercolor to depict the gold, green, and pink colors of the proposed pieces. This is a design for a watch-case, the front face of which would likely be covered with a glass or crystal lens to show the time. The detail of the floral pattern and the jewels give a sense of the lavish taste of the time, suggesting that these pieces were made for the wealthy or aristocracy. This design is a valuable example of 18th-century decorative arts.