All Links will open in a separate browser window
A fine floral enameled gold watch

49.5 mm diam., circa 1752, the movement signed "Joseph Flornoy, A Paris"
Although bearing a Geneva maker's mark, SG, the watch case is a fine example of the type of floral enamel work in vogue in Paris at the middle of the 18th century. For example, compare this decoration to a gold carnet of 1750-52, by Jean Ducrollay (fl. 1734-1760), in the Thyssen-Bornemisza collection and a lorgnette by Hubert Cheval (Paris, fl. 1716-1751) at Waddesdon Manor. The Thyssen-Bornemisza collection also includes a snuff box of 1752-3 by Jean Fremin.(fl. 1738-86) and another by Barnabé Sageret (fl. 1731-1758).

The similarities among the enamel work on these dated objects by different goldsmiths suggest this watch case was made at the same time. Watchmakers with the surname "Flournoy" or "Flournois" worked in Geneva throughout the 18th century.




eNAMEL is indebted to Dr Snellenburg for the use of information and images from his website. His New York gallery houses some of the finest uncommon clocks and watches, instruments of science and technology, and other decorative objects available.

Dr. Snellenburg has participated as an appraiser in the PBS television series "The Antiques Roadshow" since its first season. He is also a member of the Vetting Committees for the Winter Antique Show and the International Fine Art and Antique Dealers Show held each year at the 7th Regiment Armory, New York City, and will be exhibiting at this year's Winter Antiques Show, from January 20th-27th 2002 at the Hilton New York, 1335 Avenue of the Americas (6th Avenue) at 54th Street.