French Bronze Ormolu Mantel Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1870
This French mantel clock, dated to circa 1870, features an eight-day movement housed within an intricate bronze ormolu case. The clock is designed with an emphasis on rococo aesthetics, characterized by elaborate, heavy decorative elements.
The white dial displays Roman numerals and is fitted with spade-style hands. The internal mechanism is an eight-day striking movement that sounds on a bell at the half-hour and the hour. The entire piece maintains an original finish to the metalwork. It stands 42 centimeters high, 26 centimeters wide, and 10 centimeters deep. The auction description indicates that the movement is original to the clock and remains 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 1870
- Type
- Mantel clock
- Origin
- French
- Striking
- Bell strike on half and hour
- Dimensions
- 42cm high x 26cm wide x 10cm deep
- Case material
- Bronze ormolu
- Place recorded
- France
- Movement duration
- 8-day
Design
- Case and Dial
- The clock is enclosed in a heavy bronze ormolu case, described as having a rococo design. The exterior displays significant decorative detailing, including ornate, scrolling foliate work and lattice-style cutouts across the lower and upper sections. The structure is supported by four feet and topped with a prominent finial. The dial is circular and clean, featuring black Roman numerals for the hours. It is equipped with a pair of spade-shaped hands. Two winding holes are positioned symmetrically on the dial face, corresponding to the clock's time and striking functions.
- Visible features
- • Case features extensive rococo-style foliate casting and open latticework • Dial has two winding apertures and spade hands • The movement strikes on a bell • Case measures 42cm x 26cm x 10cm
- Movement and Function
- The object is powered by an eight-day movement of French manufacture. The mechanism is original to the clock and is designed to strike a bell. The striking sequence occurs at both the half-hour and the full hour. The movement is reported to be in working order and retains an original finish. The source notes that the clock produces a sound described as a clean-sounding bell.
- Condition and Dimensions
- The clock is reported to be in very good condition relative to its age, with only slight signs of use. The bronze ormolu case retains its original finish. Regarding its physical scale, the clock measures 42 centimeters in height, 26 centimeters in width, and 10 centimeters in depth. The source provides these dimensions to define the physical footprint of the object.
Identification
- SKU
- z26
- Serial number
- z26
- 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: Manufacturer not identified
- Research required: Specific mechanical maker or marks are not cited in the source