Lantern clock, after 16th century models; 19th century. Bronze. It has a handle and weight. Needs restoration. Measurements: 36 x 12 x 12 cm. Lantern clocks, probably so called because of their lantern-like shape, originated around 1500, but only became common after 1600 (in Great Britain, around 1620), becoming obsolete in the 19th century. The present example continues the typical appearance of this type of clock: a square case on spherical or urn feet (turned in this case), with a large circular dial, only one hand (the hour hand), and a large bell with a crown. The clocks were usually decorated with openwork ornamental motifs above the frame. Originally, they were operated by weights: usually one weight for the clock, and a second weight for the chime. Later, some spring-driven models were built, and many others were transformed into pendulum clocks.