'Three Graces,' three-piece lapis and gilt bronze clock set

'Three Graces,' three-piece lapis and gilt bronze clock set
French, early 20th Century
Clock: Height 77cm, width 28cm, depth 28cm
Candelabra: Height 70cm, width 42cm, depth 42cm
 
This garniture comprises three pieces: a mantel clock and two flanking candelabra, the entire ensemble designed and ornamented in an ornate Neoclassical style. The garniture is composed of gilt bronze and lapis lazuli, with the lapis elements being a later addition.
 
The mantel clock, which is supported by a lapis trefoil form base set on its sides with gilt bronze pierced foliate mounts—the gilt bronze contrasting beautifully with the lapis lazuli—contains a figural group of The Three Graces, sculpted from bronze and exquisitely gilded. The trio holds above their heads the spherical clock body, of blue finished metal. The two candelabra are similarly crafted and finished, each candelabrum supporting nine scrolling gilt bronze branches terminating in nine candleholders.