Charles X period ormolu mounted lapis lazuli mantel clock

This Charles X period mantel clock, wrought from lapis lazuli and ormolu (gilt bronze)—the lapis being a later, beneficial veneer—is a superb example of the whimsical yet classically informed nature of clocks created during this period.

The clock features a rectangular plinth-form lapis body, raised on a stepped lapis base above four semi-circular ormolu feet, each foot embossed with an anthemion motif. The lapis clock body is encompassed by two architectural ormolu bands—one above and one below the dial. The tiered cornice band is cast with an egg-and-dart motif, while the band to the base features embossed foliate designs. The case contains a circular ormolu clock dial, the dial inscribed with Roman numeral hour marks and finished with guilloché machine work to the central circular register. The dial is encompassed by a richly detailed foliate wreath.

The plinth-form lapis case is surmounted by a large ormolu sculpture of Cupid, who softly kneels, his hands playing gently with a butterfly. The figure of cupid is wonderfully cast and gilded, exemplifying the quality of the piece.