Ansonia Royal Bonn Clock

Q:         My ceramic mantel clock is about 15 inches high and 13 inches across at the base. It has an ornate shape and is painted in vivid pink, yellow, green and white with large flowers and greenery. There is gilt trim around the dial, which has Roman numerals. The clock chimes and is key-wound. The back opens up. The clock is marked “Ansonia Clock Co., New York, USA, Patent June 14, 1881” and also “Royal” above a crown over a shield with “FAM” and “1755” inside it and the words “Bonn, Germany” beneath it. What can you tell me about this clock and its value?

A:         Ansonia Clock Co. was in business in southeastern Connecticut from 1850 to 1929. Royal Bonn is the trade name used on pottery made by Franz Anton Mehlem. He operated a pottery in Bonn, Germany, beginning in 1836. The number “1755” is the first year a pottery operated on the site. Villeroy & Boch bought the pottery in 1921, but it closed in 1931. The mark on your clock was used from 1890 to 1920 for clocks with Ansonia works and Royal Bonn cases. There are many Ansonia Royal Bonn clocks available. They sell for $500 to $750, depending on condition and the quality of the case and decoration.