Antiques: Chariot carries timely story of ancients

Q My husband’s parents brought this clock from Holland in 1953 and we believe his grandfather bought it many years before at an auction in Holland. It is not working and we hesitate to spend money to make it functional as the dial is difficult to read so we would not use it as a clock. We have enjoyed it for many years as a sculpture. The base is 51 cm wide and 46 cm in height (20 x 18 inches). We were unable to find any markings. We would be interested in the history and possible value. Thank you for your interest.

Jo Anne, Ottawa

A This fabulous French Empire style chariot clock was designed under Napoleon’s reign of 1804-1814 and the motifs are suited to those times – particularly Greek and Roman ancients and their architecture. The figures carry corresponding deity names – Telemachus or Diomedes and Athena or Minerva. The shield has the head of Medusa on it. This is an expensive gilt bronze clock and the apron decorations vary with makers of this clock. Two possibilities are the Japy family of Beaucourt, France – a family with a long history in watch and clock making – and Baschet of Paris. The quality of the case and the gilding are important. Yours shows wear but I believe it is a good and rare example from the early part of the 19^th century. Its value is $3,500.

Q I recently acquired this painting. My maternal grandparents were American and it was in their home for as far back as I can remember, which is all I know. It’s signed and dated by the artist and a small plate on the lower edge of the frame states the title “Filling His Pipe” and ‘S.Filtipaldi – 1887.’ The visible part of the painting measures 26.5 x 40 cm (10.5 x 15.75 inches). I would love to know anything you can tell me about it. Thanks.

Leslie, Ottawa

A This painting speaks to good quality – one worthy of exhibition. It is a delightful genre interior with wonderful light effects illuminating central subjects – tattered shirt, chair with glazed jug and, of course the hands with pipe. But something is amiss. Even though the date and frame suit, the surname does not exist – even outside artistic circles. Plaques can be wrong but close alternatives, such as ‘Fittipaldi’ offered no results. It might be a pseudonym or a good artist that never exhibited. The hands are a touch overemphasized (a bit large), which might be ‘a tell’ but it is pleasant, regardless. I would be visiting the National Gallery of Canada for help. A solid artist biography will increase its value – without, its intrinsic value is $350.

Q This Bell Telephone truck belonged to my father as a small boy. He was born in 1938. It is cast iron and very heavy. The rubber wheels are disintegrating. Part of one leg of the hoist has snapped off. It is 28 cm long (11 inches) not including the trailer. What you can tell me about its approximate value and whether it would be worth getting the wheels replaced. Thank you.

Elizabeth, Ottawa

A Your truck was made by the Hubley Manufacturing Company – founded in Lancaster, Pennsylvania during 1894. They specialized in accurate replica cast iron vehicles for many years. You have the largest of three sizes. They were also done in green and the tire problem seems to be a common one. Accessories add value and there can also be a rare auger. Toy trucks are popular – especially when they advertise the business as yours does. In perfect condition these can bring $400. With some patience and searching online you might find suitable tires which would help greatly. As it is, it will keep ‘Bell’ ringing at $225.

John Sewell is an antiques and fine art appraiser. To submit an item to his column, go to the ‘Contact John’ page at www.johnsewellantiques.ca. Please measure your piece, say when and how you got it, what you paid and list any identifying marks. A high-resolution jpeg photo must also be included. (Only email submissions accepted.)

* Appraisal values are estimates only.*