Ansonia's Juno Ball Swing Clock. An American-made Mystery Clock. 221190.

This is a fine example of an American Swing clock made by the Ansonia Clock Company, U. S. A. This form, the swing clock, was first introduced by the Ansonia Company in the 1880s. This model is cataloged as the \Juno Ball Swing.\" This model appeared in the Ansonia catalogs in 1901. In addition to this model, the Ansonia Clock Company offered a number of other statue figures.

This example measures approximately 28 inches tall overall and 23 inches tall to the top of the arm. It is considered one of the standard sizes. The patina on the figure has been recently restored to its original Syrian Bronze finish. This is applied over a white metal base. The surfaces on the swing, including the two circular balls, retain their original finishes. The overall presentation is excellent.

The figure Juno is also know as known as Hera in Greek mythology, is subtly tied into the legend of Lillith, Adam's first wife before Eve. She was independent and quickly disappeared from Adam's life because she refused to be subservient.

Juno was married to Jupiter (Zeus). Before their marriage, Juno was a very independent and active young woman. After their marriage, she held the status of Queen of Olympus.

Juno did not sit passively while Jupiter engaged in his numerous affairs. She took her revenge on her husband's concubines and conquests, but rarely on her husband. Not wanting to risk her role in society and devoted to the sanctity of the union, she protected her husband in this manner and remained outwardly the diligent and devoted wife. Her deepest desire was for a happy union and proactive partnership.

The month of June is named after this Goddess. Interestingly, the month of June is the most popular month to be a bride.

The mechanism and the swing arm is supported by the figure's raised left arm. The upper ball features applied cast decorations, and a dial is made up of applied or raised brass hour numerals. The movement is encased in this top ball section. It is brass construction, spring-powered, and measures almost 4 inches in diameter. It is an eight-day time-only design with the pendulum swinging behind it. Below this upper ball is the pivot point for the swing. Three individual and delicate suspension springs provide the breakpoint. Below this are three rods that eventually connect to a smaller ball. When this clock is running, this entire unit moves or swings like the motion of a pendulum. This always attracts a lot of attention here in the shop when they are running.

This clock was made circa 1901 and originally sold for approximately $35.00.

This clock is inventory number 221190.