French Ormolu Cherub Figural Mantel Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
ca 1860
This mantel clock is an 8-day French bell-striking timepiece, attributed to a date of circa 1860. The clock features a gilt ormolu case decorated with a central cherub figure holding a torch, positioned atop a base adorned with hand-painted porcelain panels depicting cherubs.
The circular enamel dial displays Roman numerals for the hours and Arabic numerals for the minutes, signed by the retailer. The clock rests upon an original gilt stand with a blue silk-topped surface. The movement is reported as an 8-day mechanism with a bell strike function. The total dimensions of the object including the stand are 35cm in height, 35cm in width, and 15cm in depth. The object is accompanied by a winding key and pendulum.
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
- Mantel clock
- Stand
- Gilt and silk topped
- Dimensions
- 35cm x 35cm x 15cm
- Accessories
- Key and pendulum included
- Movement type
- 8-day bell striking movement
- Place recorded
- France
- Maker / attribution
- Beylard
Design
- Visible features
- • Cherub figure holding a torch atop the clock case • Hand-painted panels showing cherubs on the base • Enamel dial with retailer signature • Gilt ormolu finish throughout the case
- Movement and Dial
- The timepiece is equipped with an 8-day French movement configured for bell striking. The movement is housed within the circular central drum of the case, behind a circular enamel dial. The dial features Roman numerals at the hour intervals and Arabic numerals for the minute track, and includes a signature from the retailer. The mechanical system is reported to be in working order and produces an audible strike. The set includes the necessary winding key and a pendulum for timekeeping regulation. The source notes that the movement is original to the clock.
- Condition and Attribution
- The object is offered as an antique French mantel clock with an estimated date of circa 1860. The source reports that the piece is in very good condition considering its age, noting that the ormolu finish remains original to the item. Prospective assessments should note the presence of slight wear consistent with the age of the materials. The auction description reports that the object is in working order and retains its original presentation components including the stand.
- Case and Decorative Elements
- The mantel clock is constructed with a gilt ormolu case, characterized by elaborate scroll and floral decorative elements. A prominent bronze figure of a cherub is positioned at the top of the clock, holding a torch aloft. The lower section of the case incorporates rectangular panels decorated with hand-painted imagery of cherubs, which the listing identifies as Sevres-style work. The entire assembly is set upon a matching original gilt stand, which features a blue fabric covering on its upper surface. The ormolu displays ornamental detailing around the dial and across the base, maintaining what the source describes as the original finish. The clock's total footprint is defined by its 35cm width and 15cm depth, with an overall height of 35cm including the stand.
Identification
- Serial number
- 2307
- 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: The source attributes the painting to 'sevres' without providing authentication
- Research required: The age condition is described as 'very good' but requires physical inspection for specific wear