This ‘Black Forest’ type clock (left) on the theme of hunting is signed by Swiss master carver Johann Huggler of Brienz (1834-1912).
Standing 3ft 2in (94cm) high, it is carved with a hunter holding a rifle with a buck over his shoulder and a hare, beaver and three partridges emerging from the stump and roots below. It houses a typical late 19th century French striking movement by Japy Frères. It came for sale at W&H Peacock (17.5% buyer’s premium) in Bedford on January 3 from a vendor whose family has owned it since 1939. Estimated at £3000-5000, it took £7600.