French Victorian Sevres ormolu 8 day mantel Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1850
This French mantel clock, dated circa 1850, is constructed with an ormolu case and features applied ceramic panels in a blue and white palette. The dial is white enamel with Roman numerals and gilt hands.
The clock houses a French 8-day movement with a bell striking mechanism. The exterior of the clock is decorated with floral and berry motifs and multiple hand-painted panels, including a central scene of figures, smaller portrait medallions, and a figure-topped finial. The overall dimensions of the piece are 52 cm in height, 30 cm in width, and 15 cm in depth. The auction description reports that the movement has been serviced, and the clock is in working order, accompanied by a key and a 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
- Date
- circa 1850
- Type
- Mantel clock
- Material
- Bronze ormolu
- Movement
- 8-day French bell striking
- Condition
- Serviced and operational
- Dimensions
- 52 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm
- Accessories
- Key and pendulum included
- Place recorded
- France
Design
- Visible features
- • Case features a cherub figure finial • Dial includes black Roman numerals and Arabic minute markers • Gilt hands with openwork design • Blue ground ceramic panels with hand-painted floral and figure motifs
- Case and Decoration
- The clock is housed in a bronze ormolu case that exhibits floral and berry ornamentation throughout its structure. The design includes a cherub figure finial located at the apex of the case, supported by a central upright structure framing a portrait medallion. Additional porcelain panels in a blue ground are integrated into the lower and lateral sections, displaying hand-painted floral bouquets, ribbons, and a central vignette depicting two figures in a landscape. The case is elevated on a decorative base which continues the floral theme. The ormolu surfaces are described as having their original finish, and the construction incorporates vertical flanking columns that support the upper assembly. The overall scale of the clock is substantial, standing 52 cm in height.
- Dial and Timekeeping
- The clock features a circular white enamel dial calibrated with black Roman numerals for the hours and smaller Arabic numerals at five-minute intervals. The hands are gilt and formed with a decorative design. The dial is integrated into the central ormolu frame, positioned directly above the lower porcelain scene. Internally, the timepiece is powered by a French-manufactured 8-day movement equipped with a bell striking mechanism. The auction description states that the movement has been recently serviced and is currently in working order, with the necessary key and pendulum provided for operation.
- Condition and Attribution
- The movement is confirmed as original to the piece and has recently undergone servicing to ensure functionality. The item is attributed to French production, with stylistic elements and panel decorations described as Sèvres-style. , and the auction description confirms that the finish on the ormolu case remains as it was originally applied, though it does not provide specific manufacturer markings or stamps.
Identification
- SKU
- 2454
- Serial number
- 2454
- 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 exact identity of the factory producing the porcelain panels is not confirmed
- Research required: The provenance and specific history of the clock are not provided