A German gilt-bronze striking clock is among the highlights of the Abbot-Guggenheim collection, which is to cross the block at Christie's on January 27.
The lot, valued at $200,000-300,000, was produced in Ausburg, Germany around 1560-1570.
 The clock is a masterpiece of the 16th century |
It features a series of astronomical and astrological charts showing the phases of the Moon and the Zodiac. In addition, it bears engravings from the legendary master Virgil Solis (1514-1562), who operated out of Nuremburg.
Christie's describe the clock as "A Baroque tour-de force. Its spectacular size and architectural complexity clearly identify it as a masterpiece clock."
Will Russell, Christie's vice president and senior specialist of European sculpture and furniture, commented: "The extraordinary provenances of many pieces are equally as impressive as their makers, with links to the collections of J.P. Morgan, Robert von Hirsch, William Randolph Hearst, as well as Queen Marie and Prince Nicholas of Romania and the Berwinds.
"The sale will celebrate John Abbott and Peter Guggenheim as true connoisseurs of their field, with their names now added to the illustrious provenance of these exquisite works.
"In the 'New World' of New York, where collections come and go with bewildering speed, The Abbott-Guggenheim Collection has remained a remarkable constant."
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