Since 1920s, Cartier mastered the Art Deco era of the Far East decorative objects for decades. Louis-Francois Cartier having been a distinguished connoisseur of oriental languages, Louis Cartier and his brothers were exposed to exoticism via fairs such as the late nineteenth century Universal Expositions in Paris at an early age. This new curiosity from the East extends from arts to architecture were known as Chinoiserie and Japonaiserie. Other sources also enriched their imagination such as the illustrations in Owen Jones’s Examples of Chinese Ornaments. Seeded with cultural inspiration, it was not until the 1920s that Cartier’s exotic taste would be translated into a series of clocks and art objects. A three-dimensional playground and a desire to “Never copy, only create”, an impressive range of techniques and exotic influences can be found in an array of mystery clocks, screen clocks, and desk clocks. From mythical creatures, animals, figurines to exotic materials, many were sourced from antique merchants or from their travels to the East. Notably these includes the Chimera carved from nephrite from China, Kuan Yin figurines, carps and elephants from 18th century jade sculptures, or lacquered scenery from screens all founded amongst Cartier’s clock creations.

An impressive creation by Cartier Paris, the present desk clock from the 1930s is inspired by the Far East. Translucent with a calming soft pink hue crafted from a massive block of rose quartz stone, the corners are elegantly shaped with smooth rounded corners also known as the “coins Japonais, Japanese corners”. Anchored with a decorative base frame with black enamel and yellow gold, the motif further encircles the Cartier signed dial of this desk clock. Set with rose-cut diamonds Roman numerals, the 5 min markers are decorated with a five petal Sakura flower graphic that harmonize with the cherry blossom glow of the rose quartz. The fanned-out marquetry works crafted with mother-of-pearl radiates in iridescent sheen, cleverly planned out in symmetry the hours are clearly divided. A large diamond sets the centre of the Art Deco hands, an “Shou” symbolled gold plate meaning longevity, adds as a finishing finesse of the Far East theme. Powered by a European Watch & Clock Co 8-day key wound movement, the desk clock is numbered 583, its winding key is further stamped “1511”.

Fresh-to-the-market and kept in private hands for three decades, this is the only known Cartier signed example to appear in the market. Known for its symbolism of infinite peace and harmony, the present unique rose quartz masterpiece preserved with unparalleled condition and quality not only underlies its importance amongst Cartier’s history, but also demands attention as a unique museum worthy collection.