Louis XVI ‘Le Baiser’ clock, Carrara marble and fire-gilt bronze, c. 1790
Key facts
- Country of manufacture
- France
- Production time
- around 1790
Description
Louis XVI mantel clock in Carrara marble and fire-gilt bronze, c. 1790, ‘Le Baiser’ (from 1778) after Jean-Antoine Houdon (1741–1828), inscribed on the back Fetil Le Jeune a Paris A columnar case supported by five feet, with floral fire-gilt bronze decoration; the clock is crowned by a fire-gilt bronze sculpture entitled ‘Le Baiser’ (The Kiss). The original fire-gilding (matt and polished) is in good condition; the marble is undamaged apart from minor damage to the edges. The functioning movement, featuring a spring-suspended pendulum (originally with a thread suspension, modified in the 19th century), 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. The enamelled dial with Arabic numerals is in good condition for its age (there is a small chip at the central hole for the hand shaft). Made by Fetil Le Jeune in Paris Dimensions: Height: 42 cm Width: 27.5 cm Depth: 14.5 cm The pendulum and 2 keys are included in the offer.