The Astronomy Lesson French Empire Mantel Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
Circa 1810
This mantel clock is executed in ormolu and features a central plinth supporting an armillary sphere, flanked by two figures of women seated in chairs during an astronomy lesson.
The clock dial is white enamel with Roman numerals, set into the front of the table-form case. The base is constructed of verde antico marble and incorporates ormolu decorative mounts, including central putti, scientific instruments, a terrestrial globe, and a telescope. The composition features a governess and a pupil, with books placed on the floor surface. The clock measures approximately 16 inches high by 15.5 inches wide by 5 inches deep.
Attributed to the French Empire period, the design depicts a scene recognized as "The Astronomy Lesson," featuring figures in period dress seated on Empire-style chairs.
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 1810
- Type
- Mantel clock
- Mounts
- Putti, table globe, astronomical telescope
- Subject
- An astronomy lesson with a governess and pupil
- Materials
- Ormolu, white enamel, verde antico marble
- Dimensions
- 16" high x 15 1/2" wide x 5" deep
- Place recorded
- France
Design
- Visible features
- • Armillary sphere mounted on central plinth • White enamel dial with Roman numerals • Verde antico marble base • Ormolu decorative elements depicting scientific tools
- Dial and Movement
- The clock movement is housed within the central plinth structure. The dial is composed of white enamel and features Roman numerals for the hours. The hands are visible against the face of the dial. The rear of the movement housing is open, revealing a cylindrical bell and parts of the movement assembly, including the hammer and motion work. The layout allows for access to the mechanical components of the clock, which remain mounted within the gilded bronze table housing.
- Case and Figurative Composition
- The clock is configured as a narrative scene, featuring two female figures seated in ornate chairs, positioned on opposite sides of a central rectangular plinth. The figures are dressed in attire described as period clothing and are depicted in a scholarly setting. Between the figures, atop the plinth, rests an armillary sphere. Additional details on the base platform include a stack of books and a singular volume, contributing to the theme of an astronomy lesson. The rectangular housing for the clock movement is designed to resemble a table, integrated between the two chairs. The primary base consists of a slab of verde antico marble, elevated on ormolu feet. The front of this base is adorned with a relief frieze featuring two putti flanking a central arrangement of various scientific instruments, while a terrestrial globe and a telescope are positioned at the far ends of the base decoration.
- Historical Context and Comparisons
- The listing identifies the scene as "The Astronomy Lesson," noting it as a recognizable motif from the early 19th century. The source compares the composition to a clock owned by Emperor Napoleon, which was produced by the bronzier Jean-André Reiche in 1807. The clock is characterized as an object intended to represent luxury within the Empire period.
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: The source attributes the design to Jean-André Reiche by comparison but does not state this specific clock is by that maker.
- Research required: The source provides a general date of circa 1810 without specific provenance or manufacturing records.