Late Victorian Mantel Clock by Richard et Compagnie
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1880–1901
This late Victorian mantel clock features an ogee-shaped mahogany case decorated with boxwood and ebony string inlay. The design incorporates brass columns at the front corners and stands on brass bracket feet.
The white enamel dial, measuring 3.5 inches in diameter, displays black Roman numerals and a minute track with fifteen-minute markers. The dial is signed with the retailer's name, "Depree & Young Ltd Exeter," and includes black metal hands. The clock is powered by an eight-day French mechanical movement by Richard et Compagnie, equipped with a lever escapement. The auction description reports that the movement has been fully serviced and overhauled.
The clock is provided with its winding key and is described as being in good working order. The overall aesthetic is defined by the contrast between the dark mahogany and the gilt brass fittings.
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
- Maker
- Richard et Compagnie
- Retailer
- Depree & Young Ltd Exeter
- Dial diameter
- 3.5 inches
- Movement type
- French 8-day mechanical, lever escapement
- Case materials
- Mahogany, boxwood, ebony
- Place recorded
- France
- Service status
- Serviced and overhauled
- Overall dimensions
- 19cm x 16cm x 10cm
- Maker / attribution
- Richard et Compagnie
Design
- Visible features
- • Ogee-shaped mahogany case with boxwood and ebony inlay • Retailer signature 'Depree & Young Ltd Exeter' on dial • Gilt brass bezel surrounding the white enamel dial • Brass columns and bracket feet
- Case and Dial Design
- The wood surface is embellished with fine string inlay crafted from boxwood and ebony, providing geometric contrast against the mahogany grain. The front corners are flanked by applied brass columns, adding structural definition to the silhouette, while the base is supported by brass bracket feet. The 3.5-inch white enamel dial features black Roman numerals and a minute track, complete with markers at fifteen-minute intervals. The dial includes the inscription "Depree & Young Ltd Exeter," identifying the local retailer. A gilt brass bezel holds the glass, completing the aesthetic profile of the clock face.
- Condition and Authenticity
- The auction description reports that the clock is in very good condition. The white enamel dial is noted as being without defects, and the gilt finish on the brass bezel is maintained in excellent condition. The mahogany case and brass elements are presented as intact. Collectors are advised to verify the authenticity of the clock by examining the hallmarks on the rear of the movement. Documentation regarding the specific serial numbers or the Richard et Compagnie trademark on the movement plate is suggested for further confirmation of the clock's origins and internal consistency.
- Movement and Functionality
- The clock is powered by an eight-day mechanical movement manufactured by the French firm Richard et Compagnie. This movement utilizes a lever escapement for timekeeping. It is designed to function for eight days per winding cycle, a standard duration for mantel clocks of this type. According to the provided information, the movement has undergone a complete service and overhaul to ensure it remains in working order. The clock is accompanied by its original winding key to facilitate operation.
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: Condition of the internal movement components beyond the reported service
- Research required: Verification of internal marks on the back of the movement