Antique French Pendulum Clock. France, Circa 1880

Striking antique French mantel pendulum clock made circa 1880 and in excellent working order. The clocks box is made of calamine and shows off a fine classic-style asymmetrical decoration, with three charming cherubs playing around. It is finely preserved, and shows off all the charm of French late-19th-century clocks. The box stands on a red-marble base with ormolu legs which create a gorgeous and decorative color combination. The legs are made up of curves, volutes and leaves. The clocks design stands out for its stylized balance. At the top we can see a small golden-metal plate with the engraved inscription CHASSE AUX PAPILLONS. It is the name of the sculptural group that makes up the design. The translation, chase of butterflies, describes the cherubs game. The composition boasts a singular charm: the small angels show spontaneous attitudes of surprise, search and concentration. This way, the work captures perfectly the spirit of the game and the ingenuity inherent to childhood. The clocks dial is made of white porcelain and bears black Arab numerals, remaining in great condition. It has a golden-metal frame and mounts Fassonzeiger-style iron hands. The dials center is decorated with a circular reddish-golden metal detail. At the back of the clock, a small circular door let us reach the movement. This bears the engraved serial number 7601 and a circular mark with the manufacturers name, VICENT & CIE MEDAILLE DARGENT 1855 (Silver Medal at the Universal Exhibition of 1855). El precioso diseño y excelente funcionamiento de este antiguo reloj de péndulo de sobremesa francés lo harán destacar en cualquier salón, sobre una repisa destacada o un hermoso aparador. Measurements: Width: 12.8 in / 32 cm. Height: 23.2 in / 58 cm. Depth: 8.4 in / 21 cm.