19th Century French Napoleon III Hand-Painted Wall Clock With Hunting Scene

Details

Description

Rich in character and decorative detail, this antique Napoleon III wall clock combines traditional French craftsmanship with a charming hand-painted … Read more Rich in character and decorative detail, this antique Napoleon III wall clock combines traditional French craftsmanship with a charming hand-painted hunting scene. Crafted in France circa 1870, the rectangular timepiece features a black lacquered wooden case embellished with gilt accents, classical Greek key borders, and finely molded architectural details.

The front panel is decorated with a colorful pastoral scene depicting a father watching his two sons bird hunting in the countryside. One of the young hunters raises his shotgun toward the sky, while a hunting dog runs through the landscape to retrieve the fallen game. The finely detailed composition is painted in soft greens, blues, and earth tones, creating an appealing contrast against the black and gold case.

Below the hunting scene, the circular white enamel dial features black Roman numerals, delicate pierced metal hands, and a gilt brass surround. The entire composition is protected by the original hinged glass door, which opens to access the dial.

The traditional mechanical movement is operated by two elongated, pinecone-shaped cast iron weights suspended from chains, accompanied by the original decorative brass pendulum. The clock is in wonderful working order and retains its characteristic 19th-century mechanism, accessible through a hinged upper compartment and a small side opening.

The antique wall clock is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, retaining its rich colors, warm gilt accents, and attractive patinated finish. A distinctive example of Napoleon III decorative arts, this charming timepiece would make a wonderful addition to a French country home, library, study, or hunting lodge.

Dimensions: 12.75" W x 7.5" D x 16" H (clock case, excluding weights and pendulum). See less