About the Ansonia “Shakespeare” Clock
Title: The Ansonia “Shakespeare” Clock Model – A Collector’s Delight
The Ansonia “Shakespeare” clock, produced by the renowned Ansonia Clock Company between 1897 and 1941, is a captivating mantel clock that graces any collection with its elegance and historical significance. This model is not only celebrated for its intricate design but also for its association with literature, making it a unique piece among antique clocks.
The “Shakespeare” clock features a cast iron case, adorned with detailed sculptures of Shakespearean characters, such as Hamlet, Juliet, and Puck, that encircle the clock’s face. The base is typically constructed from richly grained walnut or mahogany, adding to its aesthetic appeal. The dial is often brass, with Roman numerals and intricate gilt-bronze hands.
What makes the Ansonia “Shakespeare” clock a coveted collectible is its fusion of artistry and literature within a functional timepiece. Each sculpture on the case represents a character from Shakespeare’s works, adding a touch of drama and intellectual allure. Notable features include the movable Puck figure that can be adjusted to point towards the hour hand, and the high-quality mechanical movement that ensures accurate timekeeping.
For antique clock collectors, the Ansonia “Shakespeare” clock is an essential addition due to its historical significance, artistic merit, and rarity. As with any antique, condition, authenticity, and provenance play crucial roles in determining its value, making each piece a unique find in the world of antique clocks.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 4 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “Shakespeare” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, “Shakespeare” statue mantel clock with an 8 day spring driven time and strike movement with visible escapement in an enameled iron base with a bronzed spelter statue.
Some of the original Japanese bronze finish on the spelter pieces remains. There appears to be some areas that have been painted gold. The statuary itself remains in very good condition with the exception of the missing right hand hanging pendant on the clock case. The porcelain dial has several hairline cracks and chips. The hands are original. The movement is signed.
Sold: $250 | Date: May 19, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, “Shakespeare” model 8 days, time and strike, cast metal figural mantel clock with visible escapement, c1894
this appears to have its old original surface in good condition, with minor wear to the statue and black paint on the base. The movement is correctly signed, and the porcelain dial has the logo and a tiny chip by the slow/fast adjuster. The beveled glass is fine. Ht 15″
Sold: $800 | Date: October 26, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1894, Ansonia ÒSHAKESPEAREÓ figural clock, 8-day, time and strike, painted spelter statue on cast iron base.
Condition: The movement has been recently cleaned and is running and striking; the figure and tower have been painted gold with a brush. There is no apparent damage; a decent example of this model. Height 15 inches
Sold: $400 | Date: October 31, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1894, Ansonia Clock Co, ÓSHAKESPEAREÒ figural clock, patinated spelter statue and tower, on an iron base, 8-day time and strike.
Condition: Other than a missing tip to the finial on the urn, this is a great original clock in nice condition, with coppery finish on the statue. You can purchase the entire urn from Timesavers, item #19936 for 20.50, or you can order just the finial, # 19874 for 2 dollars, but you will have to drill the top of the urn to install. Two ways to go there. The movement is running and striking and with original pendulum, hands, and case hardware. Height 15inches
Sold: $375 | Date: October 31, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts