Leitao & Irmao, Lisbon

Leitao & Irmao, Lisbon.
Carriage clock, ca. 1910.
Soft marble; silver filigree; brass.
Signed on the dial.
Stamped on the base.
Measurements: 15.5 x 7.5 x 6 cm.

Carriage clock with a rectangular marble frame covered by delicate gilded silver filigree, featuring a floral design in the Modernist style. On the front of the base, the inscription "HORAS FELIZES" in filigree letters, set among plant motifs. It rests on four turned brass feet.

Filigree is one of the most characteristic techniques of Portuguese goldsmithing. It involves working with extremely fine strands of silver or gold, which are twisted, flattened, and soldered together to form metallic lacework, often accented with small granulated beads. Of ancient origin and with strong Eastern and Al-Andalus influences, this technique took root with particular vigor in northern Portugal (Gondomar, Porto, Viana do Castelo) and was applied to both folk jewelry and luxury pieces. Here it is used on panels of white marble, which highlight the pattern of the gold thread, in a design that evokes the cases of French carriage clocks. The stylized plant motifs and sinuous lines reflect the Art Nouveau style, which coexisted with Art Deco in Portugal well into the 20th century.

Leitão & Irmão was one of Lisbon’s most prestigious jewelry and goldsmithing houses. Founded in the 19th century, it was granted the title of jewelers to the Portuguese Royal House and worked for the court and Lisbon’s high society, creating jewelry, silverware, and luxury items.