Description
Keywords: Chairman Mao, Communist China, propaganda art, mechanical clock, wind-up clock, alarm clock, automaton, revolutionary imagery, Red Guards, mid-century, political memorabilia, Chinese history
Summary:
Chinese Cultural Revolution-era automaton mechanical mantel clock housed in a shaped dark-stained wooden case. The clock is decorated with portraits of Chairman Mao Zedong, Chinese inscriptions, and a central propaganda scene depicting a revolutionary gathering beneath a large image of Mao. The transparent rotating or animated disc incorporates raised figural elements intended to move with the clock mechanism. The dial is fitted with Arabic numerals, luminous-style hour markers, and an alarm-setting aperture beneath 12. The rear retains the circular metal mechanical movement with winding and adjustment controls. Likely dating to the late 1960s or 1970s.
Working at time of inspection
Measurement: 6 x 9 x 2 1/4 in. (15.2 x 22.9 x 5.7 cm.) approx
This is a NO RESERVE lot. There are no hidden or confidential reserves. All acceptable bidding begins at the published online START PRICE.
Summary:
Chinese Cultural Revolution-era automaton mechanical mantel clock housed in a shaped dark-stained wooden case. The clock is decorated with portraits of Chairman Mao Zedong, Chinese inscriptions, and a central propaganda scene depicting a revolutionary gathering beneath a large image of Mao. The transparent rotating or animated disc incorporates raised figural elements intended to move with the clock mechanism. The dial is fitted with Arabic numerals, luminous-style hour markers, and an alarm-setting aperture beneath 12. The rear retains the circular metal mechanical movement with winding and adjustment controls. Likely dating to the late 1960s or 1970s.
Working at time of inspection
Measurement: 6 x 9 x 2 1/4 in. (15.2 x 22.9 x 5.7 cm.) approx
This is a NO RESERVE lot. There are no hidden or confidential reserves. All acceptable bidding begins at the published online START PRICE.
Condition
Bidders are encouraged to carefully review all photographs and, when possible, examine items in person prior to bidding. Photographs form an integral part of each lot’s description. The absence of a condition report, notation, or reference to damage does not imply that an item is free from defects, restoration, wear, or other condition issues. All items are sold as is, where is, and may show signs of age, use, wear, repair, or prior restoration. By placing a bid, bidders acknowledge and agree to the Terms and Conditions of Sale.
All descriptions, catalog statements, condition reports, reflect an opinion based on the information provided to us at the time of cataloging. Any certificates of authenticity, if provided by consignor, will be noted in the catalog. Clocks and watches are not warranted or represented to keep accurate time. We strongly recommend that all vintage lighting be examined or rewired prior to use.
Auction Galleries reselling works do not issue Certificates of Authenticity. COA's should best be sought from the original artist or their foundations, which often refrain from giving written authentication opinions. Accordingly, works are sold as ATTRIBUTED to the artist or maker named in the description. These attributions reflect an OPINION and are intended to provide collectors, researchers, and institutions the opportunity to study and further contextualize the material offered or establish a work’s art-historical significance.
All descriptions, catalog statements, condition reports, reflect an opinion based on the information provided to us at the time of cataloging. Any certificates of authenticity, if provided by consignor, will be noted in the catalog. Clocks and watches are not warranted or represented to keep accurate time. We strongly recommend that all vintage lighting be examined or rewired prior to use.
Auction Galleries reselling works do not issue Certificates of Authenticity. COA's should best be sought from the original artist or their foundations, which often refrain from giving written authentication opinions. Accordingly, works are sold as ATTRIBUTED to the artist or maker named in the description. These attributions reflect an OPINION and are intended to provide collectors, researchers, and institutions the opportunity to study and further contextualize the material offered or establish a work’s art-historical significance.
Buyer's Premium
30%
No Reserve: Chinese Cultural Revolution Mao Zedong Animated Automaton Mantel Clock
Estimate $50-$150
Current Price (1 bid)
$50
2 bidders are watching this item
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Sep 14, 2026, 10:00 AM EDTKingston, NY, United States
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