Astronomy Mantel Clock, 1840s

Details

Description

French mantel clock "astronomy"

paris
bronze, marble
mid 19th century

dimensions: h x w x d: 38 x 55 x … Read more French mantel clock "astronomy"

paris
bronze, marble
mid 19th century

dimensions: h x w x d: 38 x 55 x 16 cm

:
a louis xvi-style figural mantel clock mounted on a two-tiered black marble base, made in the mid-19th century.

the theme of the clock, astronomy, is embodied by two studying ladies in antique-style robes. Seated on the steps to the left and right of the clockwork, one measures the celestial globe, the other notes down the studies. The globe is mounted in a celestial meridian, on the holder we see the twelve signs of the zodiac.

the beautiful dial is protected behind domed glass. Unlike most other clocks of the time, the bezel is not fitted with a door hinge, but is opened by turning it as a bayonet catch.
on a white enamel background, we see a finely drawn minute scale and the 5-minute increments in black arabic numerals. The inner circle is formed by the blue roman hour numerals.
the dial bears the signature: perrelet et fils - h(orlo)gers me(cani)ciens du roi.

the movement is a french pendulum movement with an 8-day power reserve, lock disc striking mechanism with half-hour strike on a bell and thread suspension of the pendulum.
in addition to the engraving "perrelet et fils paris", we also find a stamped medal on the back plate of the movement: "douillon a st nicolas / m'tion honor'le".

the perrelet company still exists today, producing watches in switzerland.

condition:
authentic, restored condition with age-appropriate rubbing to the patination of the bronze. The gilding is beautifully preserved. The movement has been dismantled, cleaned and overhauled. It runs absolutely reliably.

the signature is itemised in the following clockmaker's directory:
tardy - dictionnaire horlogers francais p. 509 this piece has an attribution mark,
i am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
issues arising from misattribution See less