Museum - Watch Holder With A Carved Fish – A Passion For Trout – Folk Art - Fishing

Late 19th century

Massif Central, France

A rare carved wooden watch holder depicting a trout, resting on a small, ornate base richly decorated with geometric and botanical motifs.

Designed to hold a pocket watch, the object consists of a quadrangular body resting on four legs, topped by an elegant, finely carved trout serving as a support. The circular recess at the top held the watch, while its chain was suspended from the fish, creating a piece that is both practical and decorative.

The four sides are richly decorated with rosettes, stylized branches, serrated friezes, and knife-engraved motifs characteristic of the folk art of the Massif Central. The front features the initials “M • A,” likely those of its owner or creator, framed by two rosettes inscribed within circles.

The fish, rendered with great simplicity, evokes the world of fishermen and is a recurring theme in Auvergne folk art. Its naive expression and slender profile give this piece a very special charm.

Crafted from fruitwood carefully weathered by time, this watch holder has a beautiful honey color.

Now a rare household object, this watch stand is a remarkable example of late 19th-century French folk art.

Dimensions:

Height: 12 cm

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