Rare pair of Chinese ormolu bronze Automaton clocks, Guangzhou Workshop. Case: Ormolu, highly decorated with bold floral relief, retaining original gold plating still found in the case details, recently cleaned. Dial: large pure white enamel dial with Roman numerals. Automaton: plays hourly or by pull of a string hanging down from the right side of the case. During operation, top large leaves open up and close down gently to reveal Chinese immortal figures, 2 tiers of figures spinning towards different directions, a group of twisted glass tubes in the center simulates a waterfall. Above the dial, a panel of spinning glass tubes forms another waterfall, 2 long horizontal glass tubes to simulate a running creek with 2 ducks moving about; completed by four pine cone shaped finials and four fruit shaped finials. Clock movement: heavy triple fusee 8 day movement with engraving and signature on the back plate, quarter and hour striking on 2 bells, a balance wheel escapement. Provenance: Family collection since 1920's, family descendants moved to Taiwan in 1948's and sold to the current consignor in 2014. Believed to be a gift to the head of household and his spouse meant to impart good wishes for fortune, luck, and longevity. Reference: Classics of The Forbidden City, Timepieces in the Imperial Palace, edited by The Palace Museum, The Forbidden City Publishing House, 2008, 32"h x 11"w x 9"d (with key) Starting Price : 100000