This striking Mid-Century Modern desk clock features a heavy cast brass frame with a deep green verdigris (patinated) finish, typical of high-end Israeli metalwork from the 1950s and 60s. The face is bordered by twelve relief panels, each depicting the symbol and Hebrew name of one of the Twelve Tribes of Israel (e.g., the Lion of Judah, the Scales of Dan, the Ship of Zebulun).
The mechanical movement is produced by the renowned French manufacturer Bayard, known for their reliable "8-day" or alarm movements. The clock face is protected by a convex glass lens and features luminous hands. The base is clearly marked "MADE IN ISRAEL" and "FANTASIA".
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Manufacturer (Movement): Bayard (France)
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Maker (Case): Fantasia (Israel)
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Subject: Twelve Tribes of Israel
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Material: Patinated Cast Brass, Glass
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Dimensions: 6.25" Height x 5.75" Width
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Age: Circa 1950s–1960s
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Condition:Â The case shows a beautiful, even patina with minor age-appropriate wear to the brass highlights. No chips or cracks to the glass. Movement appears intact with original winding keys and the clock is functioning.
Reference
While this is a clock, the patinated brass style and "Fantasia" foundry work are contemporary to and stylistically identical to Israeli lighting of the period (such as those by Pal-Bell or Dayagi).
For a reference on the metalwork style and the context of the Israeli giftware industry of this era:
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Book Title: Israeliana: The Art and Design of the Young State * Author: Aleph (Published in collaboration with the Eretz Israel Museum)
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Reference: Similar verdigris metalwork and casting techniques used by Fantasia and Pal-Bell are detailed in the sections regarding the 1950s Metalware Industry (Page numbers vary by edition, typically around pp. 42-48).
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