Antique French ormolu and porcelain table clock

The table clock features a rectangular ormolu (gilt bronze) case, which is set on four paw feet, with winged C-scroll tops. The clock’s base is decorated with a band of stylised foliage. Above, the rectangular case is crafted from porcelain panels, placed within an ormolu frame, ornamented with classical ‘espagnolette’ (female bust) sculptures. On its front, the bright pink coloured porcelain case features a clock dial, composed of gilt Roman Numerals, contained within white medallions. The front face is further decorated with dark pink flower paintings, and grisaille (grey monochrome) depictions of cherubs, two playing musical instruments, and one in flight, holding a bow and quiver of arrows. Grisaille paintings of winged figures carrying fruit and flower baskets decorate the sides of the clock case. The ormolu case is topped by a stepped lid, ornamented with bands of scrollwork and stylised foliage. This is surmounted by an ormolu sculpture of a seated woman in classical dress, wearing a laurel wreath and holding a lyre.

This table clock is a truly exquisite decorative art work, which will appeal to collectors of fine timepieces.