Antique Napoleon III Mantel Clock in Bleu De Sèvres Porcelain and Chased Ormolu, 1865

Details

Description

A magnificent Napoleon III period mantel clock, dating to around 1865-1875, crafted in deep bleu de Sèvres-style porcelain and richly … Read more A magnificent Napoleon III period mantel clock, dating to around 1865-1875, crafted in deep bleu de Sèvres-style porcelain and richly decorated with finely chased gilt bronze (ormolu). This is an exceptional and substantial example of French Second Empire decorative arts, combining an imposing architectural composition, sculptural gilt-bronze decoration and a prestigious Japy Frères movement.

The clock is centred around a monumental vase-form body in an intense cobalt-blue ground, extensively mounted with gilt bronze. The front is enriched with garlands, acanthus leaves and floral ornament, while the sides feature classical lion mascarons with suspended tassels. Two finely modelled winged cherubs playing musical instruments flank the lower section.

The composition is crowned by two doves resting among flowers and fruit, creating an elaborate sculptural finial. The combination of deep blue porcelain and richly modelled gilt bronze gives the clock a particularly decorative and monumental presence.

Movement
The clock houses a period Japy Frères & Cie two-train movement bearing the firm's Médaille d’Honneur medallion.
The movement and strike have been tested, and the clock has been running continuously for more than 24 hours, keeping time and operating correctly during the test period.
As with any mechanical antique clock of this age, however, continued accuracy and future mechanical performance cannot be guaranteed, and periodic professional servicing may be required.

Dimensions
Height: 54 cm (21.2 in)
Width: 40 cm (15.7 in)
9.5kg

Condition
Very good decorative antique condition overall.
The blue porcelain body is exceptionally well preserved, with no visible major cracks, chips or restoration observed.
The gilt-bronze mounts retain an attractive warm surface and show age-related wear and patination consistent with the period.
One enamel numeral - I - shows evidence of an old restoration.
The original front glass covering the dial and the rear protective cover of the movement are absent.
No significant structural losses to the gilt-bronze ornamentation were observed.
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