catalog text
RARE FRENCH EGYPTIAN REVIVAL THREE PIECE CLOCK GARNITURE SET
Retailed by Tiffany & Co, New York; clock movement by Japy Freres, c. 1880-90
Item # 412YAM05E
Of utmost quality and craftsmanship, this exquisite three-piece garniture set is inspired by the near obsession for Egyptian antiquities that overtook the decorative arts movements of the late 19th century. Tiffany & Co in many ways led the market in employing Egyptian motifs in their objects d'art. The present example is precious in it's tasteful use of these motifs, while employing an angularity in the case that allows it to remain relevant in a modern setting.
The majority of the case and of both urns is crafted of polished black slate, the whole remaining in excellent condition with only minor chipping and repairs. The clock itself is in marvelous working condition, the bell ringing out clearly a strike for every hour: two strikes at two o'clock, eleven strikes at eleven o'clock, etc. Beautiful and handomsely detailed gilt and patinated mounts surround the black slate dial, this set with raised gilded Roman numerals around the gilt inscription of "Tiffany and Co, NY" with tiny pierced and gilded hands tracking the time. A pair of solid bronze sphinx flank the incised gilt decorations around the dial, these resting over the faceted slate base resting on rectangular pillars and some of the most exquisitely cast Lion's paw feet.
The movement is stamped on the plate "Japy Freres & Cie, Med d'Honn. Exp. 1855", "4651 Tiffany & Co, NY" with the pendulum calculations impressed at the bottom of the movement. A pair of original urns flanking the clock perfectly compliment the form of the case and complete the classical form of the urn surmounting the clock case.
For collectors that demand the absolute best in taste and craftsmanship, this is an absolutely exceptional investment grade selection. It is an exceedingly fine piece that sets the pace for the decor and quality of any room it becomes a part of.
Measurements: [clock] 21 1/4" H (including urn; only 11" H without the urn resting on top) x 19 1/4" W x 7 1/4" D; [urns] 16 7/8" H x 6 7/8" W x 5 3/16" D
Condition Report:
Clock in beautiful working condition - we have not had the movement cleaned or serviced; sometimes the movement may need service after being shipped. There are chips to most corners of all three pieces, with some accompanying patching/glued chips/colored spots - these are visible in the slideshow photographs, but overall are not particularly noticeable. Repaired chip to right side of clock case. Wear to patina and oxidization to the gilding throughout. Some replaced screws in feet. Overall exceptional condition. Please review all images in the slideshow for a full overview of condition.
