Watch 1635 - 1655

This watch was made by Edward East, sometime in the 17th century, from gilt brass and silver. Notice the intricate floral details, typical of the Baroque period. The silver dial indicates East’s expertise in manipulating precious metals, while the brass case is deeply chased with scrolling foliage. Consider the labor required to produce this level of ornamentation; this watch was a luxury object, intended to display the owner's wealth. The materials themselves, while beautiful, are only part of the story. The real value lies in the skilled work of the goldsmith and the watchmaker, each contributing their expertise to the final product. These expertises are intertwined with design and craft histories. The contrast between the gleaming surfaces and the complex mechanism inside speaks to the period's fascination with both beauty and technology. The watch is not just a functional object, but a miniature sculpture, reflecting the cultural values and social hierarchies of its time. So, next time you look at an object like this, remember to consider the hand that made it, and the world that it came from.