Large portal clock in Carrara marble with fire-gilded bronze fittings and mythological Wedgwood plaques, Paris, Louis XVI style, c. 1785
Key facts
- Production time
- 1785
- Country of manufacture
- France
Description
Large portal clock in Carrara marble with fire-gilded bronze fittings and mythological Wedgwood plaques in Paris Louis XVI, c. 1785 The two columns, each flanked by two vases and two lion’s paws, rise from the square plinth with bronze inlays and a beaded moulding; the clock case is mounted in the centre and crowned by a vase finial featuring a Gallic cockerel, beneath the dial, musical instruments are depicted, surrounded by laurel leaves. The four original Wedgwood plaques (Athena, Ares, Chronos, Artemis) are well preserved. The bronze parts are in good condition for their age, as is the original gilding (the lower beaded moulding is worn); the two marble columns have been repaired once (see photographs); there is a rust stain on the right-hand side of the plinth. The movement, with its thread suspension and half-hour and hour striking mechanisms, has been fully overhauled and reset by a master clockmaker; it runs for approximately 14 days. The enamel dial is undamaged and is signed ‘a Paris’. Dimensions: Height: 53 cm Width: 34 cm Depth: 10.5 cm The pendulum, key and a bell are included in the offer. A similar clock is illustrated in *La Pendule Française*, Tardy, 2nd Part, p. 268. *La Pendule Française*, 2nd Part, Tardy, p. 270