Empire Style Mantel Garniture. France, 19th Century

An impressive French mantel garniture of the 19th century, executed in the Empire style in gilt bronze and finely cut crystal glass. The ensemble comprises a mantel clock and a pair of ornamental vases, conceived as a unified decorative composition characteristic of the monumental decorative arts of the late Neoclassical period. The focal point of the composition is the cylindrical clock, articulated by faceted cut-glass columns framed with gilt bronze capitals and bases. The clock is surmounted by a striking sculptural figure of the Imperial eagle with outstretched wings, standing upon a faceted crystal dome. Resting upon military trophies, the eagle reinforces the triumphant symbolism of the ensemble. The base of the clock is enriched with an elaborate decorative frieze and finely cast mascarons depicting the head of Medusa, motifs derived from Classical antiquity that are emblematic of the Empire style. The lower section rests upon sculptural gilt bronze feet in the form of fantastic creatures. The pair of ornamental vases is crafted from cut crystal with brilliant diamond-point faceting and mounted with richly chased gilt bronze mounts. Their handles take the form of elegant swans with outstretched wings, while the bases are adorned with seated sphinxes, among the most recognisable decorative motifs of the Empire period. Of particular artistic significance is the military iconography incorporated throughout the garniture. The gilt bronze ornament includes representations of cannons, sabres, military trophies and the Order of Saint Stanislaus beneath the Imperial eagle. This decorative programme reflects the fascination of early nineteenth-century European decorative arts with imperial authority, military glory and the heroic ideals of Classical antiquity. The garniture displays exceptional quality of bronze casting, refined chasing and remarkably well-preserved decorative detailing. The harmonious combination of richly gilded bronze and brilliantly cut crystal creates a composition of remarkable grandeur and architectural balance. Dimensions: Clock: height 49 cm; width 20 cm. Vases: height 33 cm. Condition: Good collectors condition. Natural signs of age consistent with the period.