Large fire-gilded bronze pendulum mantel clock, Galileo G., Deniére, Paris, c. 1825
Key facts
- Country of manufacture
- France
- Production time
- around 1825
Description
Impressive fire-gilded bronze pendulum clock featuring ‘Galileo Galilei’ from Paris, with a case by Deniére, circa 1825, 21 kg A broad, fire-gilded plinth supported by volutes, divided by a band of acanthus leaves running all the way round, with acanthus leaf volutes rising at the corners; on the right stands the clockwork, upon which stands the figure of Galileo Galilei (1564–1621/22) is mounted; he holds a geocentric model of the universe in his left hand, accompanied by his famous phrase ‘E pour si mouve’ (and yet it moves). The original fire-gilding (matt and polished) is in very good condition; the bluing is untouched; overall, it is in an outstanding original condition. The functioning movement, featuring a pendulum suspended by a thread, an anchor escapement and a lock-disc striking mechanism (full and half hours), has been expertly overhauled and adjusted; it runs for approximately 8 days. This is attributed to Deniére in Paris (bronze worker) and Pons (movement) The dial with Roman numerals is in good condition. Jena’s François Deniére (1775–1866) was first mentioned towards the end of the 18th century, when he ran a workshop together with François Thomas Matelin at 58 Rue de Turenne. He supplied Napoleon I, amongst others, as well as numerous members of the nobility during the Restoration (Louis XVIII). During the July Monarchy (1830–1848), his workshop was the largest and most significant in the whole of Paris (approximately 400 employees in 1839). Bronze works by Deniére can be found, amongst other places, at Versailles and the Grand Trianon. Dimensions: Height: 59 cm Width: 47.5 cm Depth: 18.5 cm Weight: approx. 21 kg. The original pendulum and a matching key are included in the offer. The last image is for size comparison only.