Antique Porcelain and Ormolu Mantel Clock from Richard & Cie, 1890s

Details

Description

An elegant French mantel clock attributed to Richard & Cie of Paris, dating to the late 19th century. The case … Read more An elegant French mantel clock attributed to Richard & Cie of Paris, dating to the late 19th century. The case combines richly gilded bronze-mounted construction with finely painted porcelain panels decorated in deep cobalt blue and gold. The architectural form is crowned by a covered urn flanked by scrolling ormolu mounts, reflecting the refined decorative taste of the Napoleon III period.
The porcelain decoration features hand-painted pastoral scenes with cattle resting beside a river landscape, framed by cobalt borders highlighted with gilt ornament and raised white enamel decoration. The dial is composed of individual porcelain cartouches with Roman numerals surrounding a painted central reserve, creating a particularly refined presentation typical of high-quality French decorative clocks of the period.
The movement bears the Richard & Cie mark together with the Japy Frères Médaille d'Honneur stamp. The clock has been tested over several days and was found to run reliably, with the striking mechanism operating correctly at the time of cataloguing. The original presentation base accompanies the clock and further enhances its display presence.

Details:
Dimensions (clock): Height 42 cm (16.54 in); Width 27 cm (10.63 in); Depth 13 cm (5.12 in)
Dimensions (base): Width 30.5 cm (12.01 in); Depth 14.5 cm (5.71 in); Height 4 cm (1.57 in)

Condition:
Good antique condition with age-related wear. The gilt surfaces display expected rubbing and patina consistent with age. The porcelain panels are free from visible cracks and major damage, with the painted decoration remaining well preserved. Some losses to the white raised enamel decoration have been restored. The eight-day Japy Frères movement has been tested over several days and was found to run reliably, while the striking mechanism is functioning correctly at the time of cataloguing. As with all antique clocks, the movement is sold without guarantee of future performance or timekeeping accuracy. The accompanying base is structurally sound but shows wear to the blue fabric covering and evidence of later gold-painted surface finishes. (The photographs form an integral part of the .) See less