About the Ansonia “Music and Poetry” Clock
Title: Ansonia “Music and Poetry” Clock Model: A Collector’s Delight
The Ansonia “Music and Poetry” clock is a captivating novelty timepiece that combines the elegance of a clock with the charm of mechanical music and poetry. This unique piece, produced by the renowned Ansonia Clock Company between 1895 and 1907, represents a mesmerizing fusion of art and technology from the late Victorian era.
The Music and Poetry clock typically features a richly decorated wooden case, often adorned with intricate carvings and detailed paintwork that depict various scenes from nature or mythology. The base is usually made of mahogany, cherry, walnut, or oak, while the dial and movement are crafted from brass. The clock stands on a three-tiered pedestal with a cylindrical music box mounted on top, playing one of 12 different melodies upon the hour.
What makes the Ansonia “Music and Poetry” clock collectible is its rarity and exceptional craftsmanship. Each piece is handmade and features a unique design, making it an excellent addition to any antique clock collection. Notable features include the mechanical music box that plays tunes like “Auld Lang Syne,” “God Save the Queen,” or “The Star-Spangled Banner” upon the hour; and the moving figurines or automata that accompany the music, adding a touch of whimsy to this already enchanting timepiece.
Collectors should look for signs of originality, such as intact mechanisms, working musical movements, and unaltered cases, to ensure authenticity and value. With its historical significance, exquisite design, and captivating functionality, the Ansonia “Music and Poetry” clock is an essential
Auction Records and Price History
The following 5 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “Music and Poetry” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
C.1894, Ansonia Clock Co., “Music and Poetry” double statue figural clock, in dirty condition with lots of potential
The porcelain dial is perfect along with the beveled glass and open escapement. The hands are original. The movement is signed. The whole clock has a few coats of black paint that need removal and proper finish applied. The metal figures are sound and show no signs of damage or repair. This clock will restore nicely. Height 20 1/2″
Sold: $1,300 | Date: April, 2002 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co. figural clock, “Music & Poetry”, ca 1894.
Beautiful Japanese Bronze finish, enameled iron base, statues and ornaments identical to the catalog pictures. Recently restored by Bruce Baziluk. Movement is 8 day, strikes a gong on hours and half hours. Has a two piece porcelain dial, open escapement, a few hairlines that were cleaned in an ultrasonic machine and are now very difficult to see. This beautiful piece of art is 21 inches high and 20 inches wide. Correct pendulum, clock runs. Ly-Ansonia No.483.
Sold: $2,005 | Date: July, 2002 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Ansonia Clock Co. very poplar figure clock, “Music and Poetry”, C. 1894.
This clock came with the 250 clock collection that has been in storage a few years. It is very unusual in that the normal “enameled iron base” is not enameled, but has a gold wash, that is original, and was no doubt an option available from the factory. There has been no restoration or changes made to the finish, but is pleasing and shows very little oxidation. It is complete, has been serviced, and all the extras are nice and proper, such as, 2 piece porcelain dial, beveled glass, hands, outside escapement, back cover, pendulum. The case is 20.75″ high, 20.5″ wide. The collector-repairman who owned this collection choose very fine, original clocks, and everyone of his clocks we have found to be in sound running condition. Ly-Ansonia #483.
Sold: $2,650 | Date: July, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, NY, ÓMusic and PoetryÒ double-statue figural iron and spelter, 8 days, time and strike, mantel clock with visible escapement, c1894
costly when new and complete, this example is ready for restoration. Both statues have been detached and mounted on wooden bases. The top urn is apart and incomplete. The bronzed finish is mostly absent, and the black painted base is worn. The white enamel dial has chips and repairs; the pallet pins are steel; the hands are incorrect. The signed movement will need service. Ht 20.75
Sold: $550 | Date: May 16, 2015 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1894, Ansonia MUSIC and POETRY, double statue mantle clock in very good, as-found condition.
The statues are a bit dirty, but complete and sound with no breaks nor repairs. Most of the original finish is worn off at this point, but it allows for restoration to suit the individual collector. Good porcelain dial with open escapement and original hands. This clock sold new for $47; see Ly item No. 483 on page 153. Height 20.75 inches
Sold: $2,000 | Date: October 18, 2003 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts