1840s French Louis XVI Bronze Marble Lyre Clock

Details

Description

An elegant French Louis XVI–style lyre clock dating from approximately 1840–1860, combining sculptural bronze, ormolu accents, and an original red-brown … Read more An elegant French Louis XVI–style lyre clock dating from approximately 1840–1860, combining sculptural bronze, ormolu accents, and an original red-brown marble base. Formed as a classical lyre, this refined antique timepiece reflects the neoclassical taste of 19th-century French decorative arts, where music, mythology, and precision clockmaking were brought together in one luxurious object.
The bronze case presents a beautiful contrast of cleaned original patina and warm ormolu highlights. Delicate female figures, foliate scrollwork, floral ornamentation, and finely modeled classical details decorate the lyre-shaped structure, giving the clock an architectural and sculptural presence. The bronze and ormolu surfaces have been cleaned only, not re-gilded, preserving the authentic character and depth developed over time.
The clock is fitted with a traditional 8-day mechanical movement that strikes on the hour and half-hour. Its bronze dial features Latin numeral cartouches, finely formed bronze hands, and a protective glass bezel. The movement has been professionally checked, cleaned, and oiled by a clockmaker and is functioning correctly.
The clock is complete with its pendulum, bell, and winding key, making it ready for display and use.

Details
Date/Period: 1840–1860
Maker/Brand: French, unmarked
Style: Louis XVI Revival / Neoclassical
Color: Patinated bronze, ormolu gold, red-brown marble
Materials: Bronze, ormolu, marble, glass
Category: Mantel clock / lyre clock
Quantity: 1 piece
Movement: 8-day mechanical movement
Strike: Hour and half-hour strike
Includes: Pendulum, bell, and winding key
Service: Professionally cleaned, checked, and oiled

Dimensions
Height: 58 cm / 22.8 in
Marble Base Width: 28 cm / 11 in
Clock Width: 22 cm / 8.7 in
Depth: 18 cm / 7.1 in

Condition
Very good antique condition with light signs of age and use consistent with the mid-19th century. The bronze retains a pleasing mix of original patina and ormolu highlights. The original marble base is well preserved and has a small chip, as shown and expected for its age. No structural issues noted. The movement is functioning after recent servicing.
A sophisticated and highly decorative French clock for a mantel, console, library, or curated collection of neoclassical antiques.

Shipping
Shipped from the Netherlands with a reliable courier. The clock will be professionally packed with protective materials to safeguard the marble, bronze, glass, and internal movement during international transport. See less