Antique Empire style ormolu mantel clock by Moinet

The mantel clock is crafted entirely in ormolu in the Empire style. The clock is of rectangular form, featuring a stepped base with floral border detailing set on four feet which take the form of winged female masks. The upper section of the stepped base is fronted with a Classical style frieze, which depicts the Roman god of love, Cupid, leaving the bed of Psyche, a beautiful princess. The story is taken from the Roman writer Apuleis' book Metamorphosis. The frieze is surrounded by an egg and dart border. Above the frieze is the central clock case, which takes the form of an arched square-form column with a stepped base. The circular clock dial is set to the top of the column, and features black Roman numerals on a white face surrounded by ormolu beading. Below the clock face are garlands, pilasters and a central urn. Standing to either side of the arched clock case are the figures of Psyche who is reaching up with a floral crown to the figure of Cupid. The movement is visible to the reverse of the clock case column, and is stamped 'L. MOINET A PARIS'.

The clock movement was made by Louis Moinet (French, 1768-1853), a sculptor, painter and horologist active from the late 18th Century until his death. As well as being credited with inventing the chronograph, Moinet made clocks for customers including the Emperor Napoleon, the US President Thomas Jefferson, King George IV of England and many other royals and aristocrats.