Clock-watch 1620 - 1630

This clock-watch was made by Jacob Ducimin in the 17th century, a period defined by rigid social hierarchies and the centralization of power. Ducimin, who died at only 15, created this object of immense value and status for the upper classes. Timepieces like this were not just functional; they were potent symbols of control—over one’s schedule, labor, and even life itself. The intricate detailing speaks to the immense skill involved, but also the resources needed to create such a piece. Consider the cultural context: in a world where time was increasingly regimented for the working classes, a clock-watch like this emphasized the privilege of its owner. There’s an undeniable tension here: the beauty of the craft versus the implications of what it represents. As you observe the delicate engravings, perhaps you feel both admiration and a slight unease, a recognition of the intertwined relationship between art, power, and identity.