#johann andreas thelott

[sictransitgloriamvndi]

[pwlanier]

DYNASTIC MONUMENT OF THE HOUSE OF WITTELSBACH

Johann Andreas Thelott, Christoph Dorsch

Augsburg and Nuremberg, c. 1726/1729

Silver, gilded, gold, enamel, semi-precious stones, mother-of-pearl, tortoiseshell

This magnificent, colourful piece of jewellery art is a testimony to the political propaganda of the House of Wittelsbach, commissioned by the Bavarian Elector Karl Albrecht after his accession to power. In an altar-like structure, the commemorative plaque shows 63 miniature portraits of Bavarian rulers and their legendary predecessors, including Charlemagne. The family tree was intended to legitimise Karl Albrecht's imperial status. Johann Andreas Thelott, one of the most important goldsmiths of Augsburg, was responsible for the execution. The chalcedony gemstones were supplied by Christoph Dorsch, a Nuremberg glass and stone cutter who specialised in portraiture.

Bavarian National Museum

[pwlanier]

SILVER CLOCK

Johann I Bartermann, Johann Valentin Gevers, Christian Winter, Johann Andreas Thelott, Christoph Schöner, Heinrich Eichler

Augsburg and Munich, c. 1700

Silver, partly gilded, ruby glass, turquoise, glass stones, wood, gilded

Commissioned by Elector Max Emanuel, this monumental timepiece exemplifies the collaborative work of Augsburg craftsmen. The carpenter Heinrich Eichler is considered to be the principal contractor who purchased the silver parts, the ruby glass and the clockwork from various masters. The dial and the sphere with the moon phases almost disappear into the background in between the all magnificent silver fittings, figures and reliefs with scenes from the legends of antiquity. A playful element is the ball track, which is driven by a separate mechanism.

Bavarian National Museum