RZM Fine Arts and Antiques Inc: Ask the Appraiser

As a regular reader of this column, I am fascinated each week to learn about the interesting items you so expertly appraise and in addition, you offer a detailed history. It’s better than the “Antiques Roadshow!” Now, if I may request a professional appraisal on what I consider to be a significant antique green marble standing clock. I inherited this clock from my parents at least 40 years ago, and it was given to him from his father. It measures almost seven feet tall and as my pictures will show, has stayed in perfect condition. It still keeps time, although I no longer keep it running. I also need to know Jon, if you believe I should have it insured. Any and all information you can supply is greatly appreciated.

Roy

This week we are all looking at a clock that is truly green with envy-and also just, well, green. A stunning piece of Russian craftsmanship, this malachite beauty proves that when it comes to timeless decor, we are still rocking around the clock. The clock you are making an inquiry about is a Monumental Ormolu Mounted Malachite Pendule Regulator Floor Clock, circa the third quarter of the nineteenth century. This clock features a cartouche-shaped hood with finely cast foliate ormolu mounts enclosing a circular dial with Roman chapters, above a bombe-form case with glazed panel, similarly enriched with additional applied ormolu decoration. The clock is set on a waisted plinth shaped foliate apron and bracket feet that terminate into scrolling foliate sabots. I can easily observe the beautiful richly veined malachite panels display vibrant natural banding throughout. A fine example.

A bit of information relating to malachite. Malachite has been prized since antiquity for its intense green coloration and dramatic natural striations. By the 19th century, the stone became highly sought after in decorative arts, particularly for luxury objects such as clocks, vases and architectural elements. Sourced primarily from the Ural Mountains and Central Africa, malachite was labor intensive to quarry and finish, making this material costly, reserved for only refined interiors. In clocks, such as your example, malachite was selected not only for its visual impact but also as a symbol of wealth and sophistication. Each panel reveals unique organic banding, ensuring no two examples are ever identical. Your grand scale clock stands as a powerful decorative statement, combining luxurious materials with classical European design, ideal for anchoring a formal interior, grand entry hall, or gallery space. I will add that large malachite clocks of this scale are increasingly scarce, particularly examples exceeding six feet in height. The dramatic vertical proportions and rich stone coloration make your clock a standout decorative object with strong appeal to collectors of continental decorative arts and luxury interiors. That being said, the current value for this magnificent Malachite and Gilt Bronze Floor Clock is $30,000 USD. I believe with the utmost certainty that this wonderful clock should not be listed on your standard homeowner’s insurance but have its own separate insurance policy with an underwriter that specializes in rare and fine antiques. There are two such insurance companies I can recommend to you which I personally deal with. Please contact me for that additional information.