Charles X Gilt-Plated Bronze Diana the Huntress Pendulum Clock

Details

Description

Mercury-gilded clock, charles x period (circa 1820-1830)

this magnificent clock, crafted from finely chased and mercury-gilded bronze, is a sumptuous … Read more Mercury-gilded clock, charles x period (circa 1820-1830)

this magnificent clock, crafted from finely chased and mercury-gilded bronze, is a sumptuous example of the typical taste of the french restoration period (charles x period).
characteristics and style

subject: the composition centers on the figure of diana (artemis), the roman goddess of the hunt, the moon, and the wild. Diana is depicted standing in an elegant yet melancholy pose, dressed in a short tunic (chiton) and animal skins, leaning on a spear. Beside her, a faithful hunting dog (greyhound or hound) sits guardedly, recalling the classical iconography of the goddess.

case: the clock case consists of a rectangular base raised on four lion-footed feet decorated with acanthus leaf scrolls. The upper section features a plinth on which the statue and clock rest.

base decorations: the front of the base is embellished with a richly applied frieze in a trophy-like style, celebrating the theme of hunting. These include:

a wreath of oak leaves surrounding a boar's head, symbolizing noble prey.

a crossed composition of hunting weapons, including spears and a bow, surrounded by laurel and oak branches.

below, a molded border with a stylized foliage or palmette motif.

dial: the circular dial is set in a parallelepiped block and features a richly decorative frame of floral scrolls. It features black roman numerals on a gilded and chased background, with burnished steel hands. Below the dial, a further depiction of a deer or fallow deer adds depth to the hunting scene.

gilding quality: the use of the mercury gilding technique (now obsolete and highly sought after) gives the bronze a warm, deep luster and an exceptionally rich finish, which enhances the finesse of the engraving.

details: the attention to detail is evident, from the draping of diana's dress to the expression on her face, from the rendering of the dog's fur to the minute decorations on the feet and dial.

dimensions and condition

estimated period: charles x / restoration (circa 1820–1830).

material: mercury-gilt bronze (gilt bronze / bronze doré au mercure).

condition: excellent for its age. The gilding is well preserved, with a patina of age that testifies to its authenticity. The sculpture is intact. The movement, a parisian wire-suspension type, has been overhauled.

dimensions: 42 x 16.5 x 60 cm. See less