Palatial Carved German Automaton Apostolic Clock

Palatial Carved German Automaton Apostolic Clock

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A monumental German automaton clock with a multitude of wood carved characters and internal components illustrating the events leading up to the crucifixion of Christ with some figures, such as Betsy Ross, George Washington and Justice, thrown in for good measure. Purchased in 1977 in Philadelphia by Jean-Paul Leduc, the automaton was damaged by fire, saved and carefully restored by a team of artisans and craftsmen hired by Leduc. Automations are currently not functioning and needs restoration and repair. Interior clock is quartz movement and is currently not functioning. The automaton has multiple hand-carved figures which originally moved in sequence and depicted the events leading to the crucifixion of Christ. Characters moved in and out of niches or doors and were alleged to have been accompanied by sound effects, music and lights. It is unknown if all the machinery and gears intended to move said figures in conjunction with certain times are present. Clock comes with description of the order in which characters are supposed to appear and include Christ, Betsy Ross and George Washington, a skeleton representing death, Father Time, models representing youth, middle age and old age, Justice, Satan, Mary, Joseph and Pontius Pilate. Includes news articles and information sheets regarding the same – the content of which we are unable to verify. The entire carved oak case measures 10.5 feet tall by 6 feet wide and 26 inches deep. 44 inch top section comes off and weighs an estimated 400 pounds by itself. Bottom section is on wheels and can currently be carefully rolled. Entire piece weighs approximately 1,000 pounds.