French Empire Portico Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1810
This 19th-century French Empire portico clock is constructed from gilt and patinated bronze, set upon a white marble base. The clock features an architectural form resembling a neoclassical temple, supported by four tapered columns accented with lotus-bud capitals.
The circular enamel dial displays Roman numerals and includes blued steel hands. It is protected by a finely chased gilt bezel and enclosed beneath a steeply pitched, patinated-bronze roof, which is finished with a gilt-bronze bird in flight. The white marble base incorporates gilt-bronze beaded molding. Standing at approximately 13 inches tall, the piece reflects the aesthetic of Parisian decorative arts from the early 19th century.
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
- Type
- Portico clock
- Condition
- Missing pendulum; movement not guaranteed; one leg loose; dial cracked
- Materials
- Gilt and Patinated Bronze and White Marble
- Dimensions
- Height 13 in. (33 cm); Width 8 in. (20.3 cm)
- Place recorded
- France
Design
- Visible features
- • Four tapered columns with lotus-bud capitals • Gilt bird motif atop the roof • White marble base with gilt-bronze beaded molding • Enamel dial with Roman numerals
- Dial and Movement
- The clock features a circular enamel dial which is inscribed with Roman numerals. Time is indicated by a pair of blued steel hands. The dial itself shows evidence of age, specifically described as having minor cracks and surface wear. The pendulum is missing from the clock as listed. The auction description notes that the movement has not been tested for reliability, and no further information regarding the caliber or specific escapement type is provided in the source documentation.
- Condition and Reported Status
- The auction description indicates that the clock is sold in an 'as is' condition. Several specific defects are noted, including a loose leg that requires attention. The clock is currently missing its pendulum, which prevents the timekeeping mechanism from operating as intended. The surface of the dial shows wear and cracking, consistent with its age.
- Architectural Design and Materials
- The clock is designed in the style of a neoclassical temple, a characteristic form of the Empire period. The structure is built upon a white marble base decorated with gilt-bronze beaded molding. The assembly sits upon small feet and supports four tapered columns. These columns are mounted on square plinths and are detailed with lotus-bud capitals at their upper sections. The upper portion of the clock consists of a circular dial framed by a finely chased gilt bezel. This is sheltered by a steeply pitched roof made of patinated bronze. A decorative element in the form of a gilt bird in flight is mounted at the peak of the roof, intended to symbolize peace and vigilance. The contrast between the matte and burnished gilding and the dark patina of the bronze is a defining visual feature of the composition.
Identification
- 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: Movement not guaranteed to be in working order
- Research required: One leg reported as loose