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Gilt bronze and lapis French Empire period mantel clock

Origin

France

Period

19th Century

Materials

ormolu, gilt bronze, lapis lazuli

Dimensions

W.	17.32 in;	H.	22.44 in;	D.	5.12 in;
W.	44 cm;	H.	57 cm;	D.	13 cm;

Condition

Good.

Creation Date

c. 1805

Description

This exquisite early 19th Century mantel clock is mounted with gilt bronze and has benefited from the addition of a later lapis lazuli veneer. The clock is formed of a cylindrical clock drum inset with a circular dial inscribed with Roman numerals. The clock drum, topped with a lapis lazuli element and surmounted by a gilt bronze foliate and floral finial, is supported by twin gilt bronze sphinxes, each sphinx seat with its back to the other. The gilt bronze sphinxes, which evince the Egyptian influence that inspires so much of Empire period decorative art, are seated on a lapis lazuli base, the base raised by toupie feet and inset to the front with a gilt bronze frieze—the frieze containing foliage and a pair of putti.

Styles / Movements

Empire, Neoclassical, Traditional

Dealer Reference Number

16143

Incollect Reference Number

342139