c.1800 Rouchouze Empire Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock

Details

Description

An exceptional early 19th-century French Empire mantel clock, crafted circa 1800–1805 and signed by P.F. Rouchouze of Bordeaux. Made in … Read more An exceptional early 19th-century French Empire mantel clock, crafted circa 1800–1805 and signed by P.F. Rouchouze of Bordeaux. Made in richly fire-gilded bronze with a signed white enamel dial, this refined clock is a beautiful example of Napoleonic-era French decorative arts and horology.
The case rests on an ornate base with four decorative feet and is richly detailed with classical motifs, including wreaths, garlands, stars, and heart symbols. At the center, a finely cast relief scene depicts a queen blessing her daughter’s marriage, creating a romantic allegory of love, union, and family continuity.
The white enamel dial is signed by P.F. Rouchouze and features elegant Latin numerals. It is framed by a delicate wreath of roses and ribbons, reinforcing the marriage theme. The upper section is crowned with a sculptural jewelry casket motif, revealing symbolic treasures such as a tiara and wedding gifts. Beside it stands a beautifully modeled queen figure, shown with graceful posture and flowing garments.
The inscription “JE ME MARIE” — “I am getting married” — makes this clock especially distinctive and meaningful, adding rare romantic symbolism to its Empire-period design.

Details
Date/Period: Circa 1800–1805
Maker/Brand: P.F. Rouchouze, Bordeaux
Origin: France
Style: French Empire / Neoclassical
Color: Fire-gilded gold bronze with white enamel dial
Materials: Gilt bronze, enamel, brass movement
Category: Mantel clock / decorative object
Quantity: 1 piece
Dial: Signed P.F. Rouchouze
Movement: Eight-day movement with silk suspension
Strike: Strikes on the half-hour and hour
Includes: Original pendulum and key
Service: Professionally cleaned, oiled, and serviced

Approximate Dimensions
Width: 30 cm / 12 in
Depth: 13 cm / 5 in
Height: 46 cm / 18 in

Condition
Very good antique condition with signs of age and use consistent with an early 19th-century clock. The original fire-gilded bronze finish has been carefully cleaned and retains a rich, authentic patina. The decorative details remain crisp and well preserved. The movement has been professionally serviced and was running well at the time of listing.
Images taken before cleaning are included to document the clock’s preservation and original condition.

A rare and historically significant French Empire mantel clock, signed by P.F. Rouchouze, with exceptional fire-gilded bronze work and a beautiful marriage-themed composition.

Shipping
Shipped from the Netherlands with a reliable courier. The clock will be professionally packed with reinforced protective materials, fully insured, and sent with tracking for safe international delivery. See less