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French Neoclassical malachite and doré bronze figural mantel clock

DocumentedSupported by at least one credible specialist source.

Record status

Individual type · partial

This monumental French Neoclassical mantel clock is a masterwork of architectural and sculptural ornamentation, combining richly patterned green malachite with doré (gilt) bronze and silver-toned metal.

The clock is constructed with an elaborate architectural case featuring two full-length classical female caryatids flanking the dial. The dial itself is decorated with intricate floral engraving and features white enamel-style Roman numeral cartouches, with two winding apertures. The piece is highly embellished with classical iconography, including a female mask with serpentine ornaments crowning the dial, seated cherubs surrounding an owl, a winged cherub atop the structure holding a gilt hourglass, and winged griffins with scrolling foliage.

The entire assembly is elevated on a substantial octagonal green malachite base, which displays dramatic natural mineral banding and is further accented with gilt bronze mounts and feet. The rear of the clock houses a traditional mechanical movement with a bell, marked with the serial number 1067. The clock is accompanied by its winding key.

Evidence at a glance

Linked sources
1
Photograph views
1
Catalogue references
0

Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.

Physical characteristics

Materials
malachite, doré bronze, silver-toned metal
Dimensions
29 x 13 x 8 inches

Technical characteristics

Markings
1067
Movement
mechanical with bell

Design

Style
Neoclassical
Features
caryatids, cherubs, owl, winged griffins, floral motifs

Identification

Source note
Described from a single auction-house listing published on Invaluable (reproduced with Invaluable's permission). Details apply to that one example; other examples of the type may differ, and the listing is supplementary evidence, not authentication.

Catalogue references

No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.