A Dutch neoclassical giltwood mantel clock last quarter 18th century

the white enameled dial inscribed Jan Hendrik Kuhn Amsterdam and with black Roman and Arabic numerals, the striking movement contained within a waisted case carved with scrolls, laurel swags and twisted ribbon.  Lower oval medallion probably of later date.

Collection of Michael Taylor, sold, Butterfield's, San Francisco, April 7-9, 1987, lot 118.

Private California collection, sold, Christie's, New York, May 18, 2005, lot 287.

Attractive and rare example of large scale. Overall condition is good with minor necessary old repairs to carved elements. Gilding is uniformly worn with good craquelure as visible in catalogue illustrations. The oval medallion of the lower part is thought to be of later date.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The engravings of designs by Jean-Charles Delafosse (1734-1791), which were heavily influenced by the goût grec style, were published in Amsterdam in 1785 and 1787, and clearly provided the inspiration for the design of this clock case.  The clock maker Kuhn (1755-1811) collaborated with the sculptor Jan Swart (1754-1794) to produce a large giltwood cartel clock for the anteroom of the Felix Meritis Society in Amsterdam in 1792.  This clock, which was made after a design by Jacob Otten Husly, incorporates a number of stylistic features found on the present example.