Forbidden clocks

A shelter for nudes hunted by the Inquisition.

Abstract

During the eighteenth century and the early years of the nineteenth century, the Spanish Inquisition sought to curb the entry into the kingdom of indecent paintings and obscene literature, viewing them as a challenge to morality and political order driven by new ideas emanating from France. This study focuses specifically on a typology of clocks featuring lascivious imagery and nude figures that circulated throughout Spain and the Americas. These objects concealed enamel scenes of a profane nature within their dials. Various inquisitorial case files are analysed, revealing the uses of these precision instruments, their importance in dress and personal adornment, and their circulation among clients such as members of the bourgeoisie and the military. Inquisitorial censorship did not prevent these objects from circulating through major Hispanic ports—from Manila to Cádiz—or from appearing in cities such as Mexico, although they were occasionally confiscated by the Holy Office for being deemed obscene.