So-called Third Rolling-Ball Clock
ca. 1600 | Christoph Margraf
The Rolling-Ball Clock: Invented for Emperor Rudolf II The court clockmaker Christoph Margraf invented the rolling-ball clockwork, which featured a new principle of timekeeping. A ball runs down a slope between two wires, sets a second ball in motion, and then is raised back to its initial position. A counting mechanism transfers the information to a clock face. The three such clocks that have been preserved are mounted in cases with reflecting mirrors and scenery.
The Rolling-Ball Clock: Invented for Emperor Rudolf II The court clockmaker Christoph Margraf invented the rolling-ball clockwork, which featured a new principle of timekeeping. A ball runs down a slope between two wires, sets a second ball in motion, and then is raised back to its initial position. A counting mechanism transfers the information to a clock face. The three such clocks that have been preserved are mounted in cases with reflecting mirrors and scenery.
Artist:
Christoph Margraf (nachweisbar Prag 1595 - 1612)
Time:
ca. 1600
Object Name
Rolling-Ball Clock
Culture
Prague
Material/technology:
Wood, silver, gilded copper alloy, glass, oil on brass
Dimensions:
H. 59 cm, B. 36 cm, T. 39 cm
Copyright
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Kunstkammer
Invs.
Kunstkammer, 859