Truncated triangular in shape with rounded corners, it is decorated on all seven sides with lapis lazuli marquetry; the lapis lazuli push-button is topped by a small jadeite statuette depicting the three wise monkeys leaning against one another, the whole crowned with a rose-cut diamond
Brass base; the electrical wire is missing
Probably Austrian, circa 1920–25
Dimensions: 4 x 5.6 x 4.7 cm
The three wise monkeys are important figures in Japanese culture. They are known respectively as Kikazaru (the deaf one), Mizaru (the blind one) and Iwazuru (the mute one). They embody the principle of ‘see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil’. This is a motif frequently used on Art Deco clocks (see Lacloche, etc.)
