French Ormolu Mantel Clock with Urn Finial
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1880
and a large urn finial. Measuring 60cm high by 32cm wide and 16cm deep, the timepiece features a circular dial casing with a convex glass door. The movement is described as an 8-day striking mechanism, which the source indicates is signed, though no photographic evidence of the signature is provided.
The exterior displays a stepped plinth base with carved decoration, including c-scrolls and floral swags, finished with an aged natural patina. The upper portion of the case is surmounted by a central urn with a blue element. The clock is reported to be in good condition, with the auction description noting slight signs of age and wear on the front foot.
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 1880
- Type
- Mantel clock
- Material
- Bronze ormolu
- Movement
- 8-day striking
- Condition
- Signs of age on front foot
- Dimensions
- 60cm H x 32cm W x 16cm D
- Place recorded
- France
- Design elements
- Scrolling floral, c and s scrolls, floral swags
Design
- Visible features
- • Blue glazed or cobalt element on top urn • Convex glass covering the dial area • Movement strike bell visible from the rear access door • Engraved-style diaper pattern on the sides of the circular movement housing
- Case Construction
- The clock features a substantial bronze ormolu case, described by the source as possessing an original natural patina acquired over time. The main housing is circular, featuring a distinct diaper-work pattern on the exterior sides. The clock rests upon a stepped plinth base, which is ornamented with carved c-scrolls and floral swags. The design is topped by a large urn finial, which includes a blue-toned insert or section. The front of the circular housing is fitted with a hinged bezel holding a convex glass lens, providing access to the interior components from the rear.
- Movement and Function
- The object is powered by a French 8-day striking movement. The mechanism is accessed from the rear of the circular housing, which features a door that swings open to reveal the strike bell and the internal structure. The source states the movement is signed, although the photographs do not clearly depict a maker's mark or specific signature on the visible portions of the plate or bell.
- Condition and Dimensions
- The clock is stated to be in good condition for its age, with the vendor explicitly identifying signs of wear located on the front foot. The physical size is defined as 60cm in height, 32cm in width, and 16cm in depth, The dial is described as a clean enamel surface featuring Roman numerals, although this component is not visible in the provided photographic set.
Identification
- Serial number
- 1119
- 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 internal clock dial and hands are not visible in the provided images
- Research required: The signature mentioned in the text is not shown in the photographs