Antique French gilt and patinated bronze mantel clock

This vigorously designed antique mantel clock is crafted entirely in gilt and patinated bronze in the revivalist style which was highly popular during the Napoleon III period. The clock is surmounted by a charming gilt bronze figural group of Bacchanalian figures, which entwine and tumble over one another on a naturalistic setting, surrounded by grapes, free-flowing wine and empty platters.

The gilt bronze group is set onto a two-tiered, patinated bronze clock case of octagonal form. The upper tier of the clock case is mounted all around with intricately entwined grape vines, which encircle the central, circular clock dial. Crafted of white enamel and featuring Roman numerals and gilt bronze hands, the dial is signed by Parisian maker Henry Boult: 'Henry / Boult Bonne Nouvelle 34'. The lower octagonal tier is mounted to the corners with intricately scrolling, gilt bronze feet, of acanthus leaf form.