catalog text
FRENCH GILT AND PATINATED BRONZE WINGED FIGURAL MANTEL CLOCK
Third Quarter of the 19th Century
Item # 502BNP20Q
An exceedingly fine work from the Second Empire, this Napoleon III Period mantel clock features a winged figural in a flowing garb turning to pour oil into a lamp resting on a cylindrical pedestal as it's feet are gently rested over a Greco-Roman footstool. The detailed and precise casting is exemplary, each feather of the wing both on the front and back carefully chased and filed into the surface, the face of the figure impeccable; even the more difficult attributes of hair and the surface variation of the garment is captured with photographic quality.
The footstool is of perfect realism, the acanthus motifs and lion's paw feet executed with great skill. The complexity of the cast is self evident, with additional mounted embellishments of torchieres on the pedestal, repeating acanthus bordering the bottom and a wonderful display of arrows and a quiver of arrows inside a laurel wreath that flows outward into snake bodies with flumes of twisting ribbon furling about as the centermost presentation of the case. The entire clock rests over flared feet. The two-train movement retains numerous scratch inscriptions of "27009", "4311B", 20991", "H293", "c" and "2926". This is a precious acquisition for the most discerning of collectors.
Measurements: 16 1/8" H x 12 1/8" W x 4 5/8" D
Condition Report:
Movement appears to be complete and is functional. However, the clock is not guaranteed to keep accurate time or to run for without being professionally serviced upon arrival. Replaced pendulum, bell is probably replaced. One interior anchor rod is loose from it's well, though this does not cause any issues and is retained with the clock should you choose to restore. Minor wear and oxidization to the gilt and patina. Roman numerals and name on dial appear to be overpainted or at least touched up. Please review the images in the slideshow for a full overview of condition.
