Huge Empire-style Apollon bronze fire-gilded mantel clock, Paris, c. 1815, 60 cm
Key facts
- Production time
- around 1815
- Country of manufacture
- France
Description
The case is supported by four feet in the shape of angled acanthus leaves; upon these rests the square plinth, on which Apollo is depicted seated upon a rock, surrounded by lions, palm trees and a snake; above this, centred, is the clockwork mechanism, upon which sits Apollo playing a large kithara; to the right of this stands a lute; the dial is surrounded by two swans, cornucopias and the head of Zephyr. The bronze case is in good condition for its age; the fire-gilding (original, not re-gilded!!!) is well preserved, though the polished areas are slightly worn (see photographs). The case was completely dismantled, all individual parts were carefully cleaned and then reassembled. The movement, featuring a thread suspension and hook escapement, was fully overhauled and readjusted by a master watchmaker (all parts derusted, pivots polished, worn bearings replaced, the anchor reground and polished, the escapement readjusted, springs checked for cracks and replaced where necessary, expertly oiled with special lubricants), it runs for approximately 14 days and strikes the half and full hours on a bell. The bronze-cast dial is also fire-gilded, and the numerals are painted on. Dimensions: Height: 60 cm Width: 34 cm Depth: 14 cm