Ajouré or Openwork

Openwork is a technique that can decorate wood and ceramic objects, but is most commonly used with metal. A decorative motif is created by either piercing or puncturing a sheet of metal, and cutting it to create the desired image. The design can be achieved by either be completely cutting out the shape, or by leaving behind some of the original metal to serve as a background.

 The English lantern clock is also known as the birdcage clock and was the first type of household clock to come to common use in England. This particular lantern clock is missing its side doors and the weights that would have been attached to the bottom with either rope or chains, however, it would generally be attached to the wall, a shelf, or be given a place on the mantel and because of its position became a central part of English households.