1800 French Empire Ormolu Bronze Gold Diana Goddess Clock

Details

Description

This exceptional French Empire ormolu bronze clock, crafted circa 1800, is a rare and impressive work of art. Highlighting the … Read more This exceptional French Empire ormolu bronze clock, crafted circa 1800, is a rare and impressive work of art. Highlighting the goddess Diana—protector of the hunt, the wilderness, and the moon—this timepiece represents both mythological symbolism and the refined decorative arts of the Empire period.
The design is monumental in scale and richly detailed. Diana sits regally at the top of the case, draped in a flowing classical gown. She gracefully raises a swan to her face while holding a jug from which water pours onto a pillar. Perched upon this pillar is a second swan, its open beak channeling the water downward like an antique fountain. Diana’s legs extend across the clock: one rests upon a pillar, the other upon the head of a third swan—an allegory of strength and divine authority. This swan also spouts water, completing the dramatic composition.
Two tall pillars frame the dial, ornamented with Greek-inspired motifs. Between them sits the white enamel dial with black Roman numerals, fitted with two delicate ormolu hands. Beneath the dial, a fringe of fire-gilt bronze ornaments adds to the richness.
The large rectangular base features an elaborate relief scene:
On the left, Zeus is depicted with a goose.
In the center, two playful putti are approached by another goose.
On the right, Diana reappears in a mythological tableau.
The whole clock rests on four finely cast bronze feet, elevating and stabilizing the piece.

Movement & Function
8-day mechanical movement.
Strikes on a bell every half hour and hour.
Recently serviced and oiled by a professional clockmaker.
Complete with bell, pendulum, and winding key.
In perfect working order.

Finish
The clock retains its original ormolu (fire-gilt) surface from 1800, carefully preserved and professionally cleaned to maintain its authentic golden brilliance.

Dimensions (approx.):
Height: 48 cm / 19 in
Width: 42 cm / 16.5 in
Depth: 14 cm / 5.5 in

Condition
Excellent preserved condition.
Original ormolu fire-gilt finish intact.
Dial and hands in beautiful state.
Professionally serviced movement, fully functional.

Why You’ll Love It
Rare French Empire Diana clock with three swans motif.
Monumental ormolu bronze case with mythological symbolism.
Circa 1800 craftsmanship, authentic and original.
A centerpiece combining art, history, and function.

Category: Mantel Clock / Decorative Timepiece
Date/Period: 1800
Maker/Brand: French Artisan-Crafted
Style: Empire
Color: Antique Gold
Material: Ormolu Bronze & Enamel Dial
Pieces: 1

Shipping
The clock will be expertly packed in a custom protective crate and shipped with a reliable courier service, fully insured with tracking for safe delivery.
✨ A museum-quality French Empire ormolu bronze Diana clock from 1800 — an extraordinary collector’s timepiece where mythology meets decorative grandeur. See less