French Boulle Inlaid Mantel Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1855
This is an eight-day French mantel clock featuring Boulle marquetry, dated by the source to approximately 1855. The clock is constructed with a red and ormolu inlaid case, decorated across the front, back, and sides.
It is topped with a floral basket finial and rests upon carved bracket feet. The dial consists of enamel sections with black Arabic and Roman numerals, operated by black cross-style steel hands. The clock utilizes a French bell-striking movement and includes a bevel glass brass bezel. Measuring 32 cm in height, 16.5 cm in width, and 10 cm in depth, the clock is described as having been recently serviced. It is sold with its pendulum and winding key, and the auction description reports it is in working order.
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.
Technical characteristics
- Date
- circa 1855
- Type
- Mantel clock
- Inlay
- Boulle (brass and red)
- Maker
- French
- Movement
- French bell striking
- Dimensions
- 32cm high, 16.5cm wide, 10cm depth
- Place recorded
- France
Design
- Condition
- The auction description reports the clock is in excellent antique condition. The marquetry is described as well-preserved, with the brass elements noted as flat and secure against the case. Furthermore, the auction description reports that the enamel dial cartouches are free of chips or hairlines, and the ormolu mounts retain their original finish and luster.
- Visible features
- • Floral basket finial top • Enamel section dial with black Arabic and Roman numerals • Carved bracket feet • Brass and red material marquetry inlay
- Case and Aesthetics
- The clock is housed in a case finished with Boulle marquetry, featuring red and brass inlay across the front, back, and sides. The design incorporates ormolu mounts that the auction description reports maintain a deep golden luster and sharp chasing. The structure is supported by carved bracket feet and surmounted by a floral basket finial. The dial is composed of enamel sections marked with black Arabic and Roman numerals, framed by a bevel glass brass bezel.
- Movement and Function
- The timekeeping is powered by a French bell-striking movement. The clock operates on an eight-day duration and is front-winding. The auction description reports that the movement has been recently serviced and is currently in working order, striking in synchronization. The piece is provided with its original or correct pendulum and winding key.
Identification
- SKU
- JN100
- Serial number
- JN100
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: Maker is not identified
- Research required: The exact material of the red inlay component is not verified beyond the term Boulle