Automaton clock in the form of a lion 1615 - 1640

This automaton clock, crafted by German artist Karl Schmidt between 1615 and 1640, showcases a gilded lion standing majestically. The clock face is integrated into the design, adding a functional element to this intricate piece. The lion, a symbol of power and strength, may have been intended to represent a particular patron or even a royal crest, making it a particularly poignant and personal object. The clock is currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, a testament to its enduring artistic and historical significance.