Antique Eclectic Style Gilt Bronze Clock Set by Henri Picard and Denière et Fils

Antique Eclectic Style Gilt Bronze Clock Set by Henri Picard and Denière et Fils
French, late 19th Century
Dimensions: Clock height 78cm, width 36cm, depth 24cm; Candelabra height 76cm, width 37.5cm, depth 29cm
 
This fine three-piece clock set consists of a central mantel clock and pair of flanking candelabra, designed in the eclectic Baroque inspired style of Napoleon III.
 
The central clock stands on four paw feet, and is architecturally formed with a roof-like top. The case is profusely adorned with foliate and scrolling ormolu detailing, classical busts either side, and a sculptural group of three female figures spinning wool. The centrally placed dial sits behind glass and features individual white enamel pieces for the hour indices, painted with Roman numerals. The roof-shaped top of the case has scalloped tile details, acanthus leaves on the corners, and is topped by an elaborate finial in the shape of a winged trumpet player.
 
The two candelabra are of similar design, with paw feet, scrolling foliate detailing, and classical masks on the stems, with connecting garlands. From the top of the stem, five scrolled branches spring, culminating in candle holders and individual drip pans.
 
The dial is signed 'Deniere / Ft. de Bronzes / A Paris' and the movement is stamped 'Deniere / A Paris / 1218 to denote the clockmakers Denière et Fils. The bronzes are stamped throughout 'H. Picard' for the bronzier Henri Picard.
 
Artist/Maker: Denière et Fils (French, 1804-1903) and Henri Picard (French, fl. 1831-1864)