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Antique gilt bronze and champlevé enamel clock set

Offered by: Mayfair Gallery

Description
This beautiful clock set—which comprises of a mantel clock and a pair of vases—was designed in France in c.1870 in a wonderful Renaissance Revival style. The set has been crafted from gilt bronze (ormolu) and ornately decorated with champlevé enamel. In the champlevé technique, designs are cut into the surface of the metal object, creating depressed areas which are then filled with vitreous enamel. The raised metal sections between the cutout areas form the outlines of the designs.

The mantel clock is composed of a tall rectangular case with a break arch top which is topped by a cylindrical feature with a pointed finial. The clock's arched top is crowned by a sculptural figure of a cherub, and pointed finials surmount the four corners of the case. The case is mounted with a central circular dial which features a black Roman Numerals and the retailer's signature 'SIMMONS, MANCHESTER & PARIS'. This dial is framed by a raised and slightly flared bezel. The clock case is flanked by four stylised free-standing columns with shaped shafts and leafy capitals. The clock stands on a rectangular stepped base with projecting corners, which is set on four bun feet. The clock's cylindrical top, case, dial and base are beautifully decorated with champlevé enamel designs, composed of turquoise, navy, green, black and red vine-like patterns and floral motifs.

The pair of vases in the set are designed in a matching style to the mantel clock. They are composed of ovoid bodies with waisted necks and flared mouths, which stand on splayed feet on raised bases. The vases are ornately decorated with black, navy, turquoise and red motifs. These take the form of sinuous vines, stylised leaves and flowers, and geometric profiles. Each vase is mounted with two handles, which are decorated with classical female masks. The vases’ feet are ornamented with bands of acanthus leaves, and their circular bases are supported on scrolled, leafy feet.

Clock- Height 42cm, width 21cm, depth 17cm
Vases- Height 31cm, width 16cm, depth 10cm

More Information

Origin:	France
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	ormolu, gilt bronze, enamel, champlevé enamel
Condition:	Good.
Creation Date:	c. 1870
Number of Pieces:	2-3
Styles / Movements:	Traditional
Dealer Reference #:	15901
Incollect Reference #:	347593

Dimensions

W.	8.27 in;	H.	16.54 in;	D.	6.69 in;
W.	21 cm;	H.	42 cm;	D.	17 cm;

Message from Seller:

Mayfair Gallery is a leading gallery in the field of art and antiques, holding a large collection of unique pieces for sale. The breadth of the gallery’s collection is wide, and includes items from a range of periods, styles and geographical origins, as well as works by famous artists and craftsmen. The main focus of the gallery’s collection is, however, on items produced during the 19th and early 20th century.