Antique Mantel Clock in Gilded Bronze. France, 1850

Superb antique ormolu mantel clock, made in France in 1850 and strikingly preserved. The clock was gilded with a mixture of gold and mercury brushed onto the cast casing. It is in great working order and mounts a thread-suspended-pendulum movement. The pendulum is not the original one but it has been adapted. Nevertheless, it is similar to the original one and fulfills perfectly its duty. The casing is a real work of art and shows a detailed decoration of romantic-inspired embossed motifs. The cases base is ample and rectangular in shape. It stands on four molding-shaped legs that are part of a beautiful embossed border that runs through all the piece. Just over the base, the central part has a front symmetrical embossed detail with two winged female figures holding a central shield with a rampant lion, over a scallop. On both sides there are two identical corner details with flowery garlands and volutes. At the top we can see the most important and big part of the clock, the sculptural work with a central dial. The image is composed of two figures that create a gallant scene with high detail and undeniable charm. The figures are a young knight and a lady, dress in the eighteen-century style and keeping a passionate conversation. The detailed decoration of the garments and accessories is especially relevant. Under the scene we can see the circular dial, made of white-enameled metal and with black Roman numerals and metal hands of the same color. At the bottom of the dial we can see the manufacturers signature, ANDRÉ FRERES A. BORDEAUX. Gorgeous and in excellent working order, this striking antique ormolu mantel clock deserves a honor place in the most elegant home. Measurements: Width: 16 in / 40 cm. Height: 20.4 in / 51 cm. Depth: 5.8 in / 14.5 cm.