Longcase clock 1725 - 1750

This longcase clock, standing at nearly three meters, was crafted by Gerrit van der Hey in the 18th century. The eye is immediately drawn to its pronounced verticality, accentuated by a rich, dark wood veneer. The clock’s design marries the functional with the ornamental, creating a striking presence. The composition of the clock can be read almost as a narrative in three parts: the robust base, the slender midsection, and the elaborate clock face and crowning sculptures. These elements blend a sense of grounded stability with an aspiration towards the heavens, each layer speaking to the passage of time. The sculptures at the apex, seemingly frozen in motion, engage in a dialogue with the viewer, hinting at time’s relentless march. This clock invites us to consider how objects not only measure time, but also embody cultural values. It presents an interplay between utility and artistry, mirroring the philosophical tensions of its era.