Antique ormolu and malachite mantel clock by Honoré Pons

Crafted from ormolu (gilt bronze) and malachite (a recent addition), this large 19^th-Century clock will make a beautiful addition to a mantelpiece. It is comprised of a rectangular stepped malachite body, set on an ormolu foot, composed of scrolls, acanthus leaves and scallop shells. The body features two central ormolu bands, one fluted and the other decorated with an anthemion pattern. The body is topped by a circular clock dial, which features Roman Numeral hours. This dial is set within an ormolu case which is modelled as a grassy mound, upon which sits the ormolu figure of a young man. This semi-nude man sits and rests with his head in his left hand. The man is accompanied by a small dog, positioned to the left of the clock dial. This figure may depict Telemachus, the son of Odysseus and Penelope in Homer’s Greek epic poem, 'The Odyssey'.

The clock movement is stamped ‘Pons 1825’. Pierre-César Honoré Pons was an important clock-maker, who is recorded as being active in Paris from 1807-50. Honoré Pons was trained by Antide Janvier, the royal clockmaker to King Louis XVI. Honoré Pons single-handedly revitalised the production of fine clocks and watches in Saint-Nicolas d’Aliermont, after being selected for the job by the French Académie des Sciences. His work at Saint-Nicolas was highly praised by contemporary horologists, and by connoisseurs of fine clocks. In 1839, Honoré Pons was awarded the Croix de la Légion by King Louis Philippe. This clock is a truly exceptional piece of design and craftsmanship.