Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

Skeleton Clock
ca. 1880
Maker not researched
Place made not researched
a: clock: brass; b: base: marble
overall: 23"h x 14-1/4"w x 8-3/4"d
Gift of Mrs. Willis R. Michael
84.83.3a-b

Skeleton Clock; a: movement: two-train (go/ strike) fusee, balance wheel escapement; brass plates pierced in shape of Rheims cathedral; b: white marble base for glass dome cover.

This clock does not have a traditional wooden case; its inner workings are exposed for all to see. This kind of clock, colorfully called a skeleton clock, was popular in England in the late 1800s. Skeleton clocks were not made to fulfill a special function, but rather to showcase clock work makers’ prowess. Buyers admired skeleton clocks for their workmanship and novelty.