Empire period ormolu mantel clock depicting Venus and Amor

This fine Empire period mantel clock is crafted exclusively from ormolu, or gilt bronze. The clock features a rectangular stepped base, with the upper section adorned to the front face with a bas relief panel depicting cherubs hunting within an idealised landscape. The base supports the square profile clock case, which is inset with a circular dial and adorned with elaborate Neoclassical style ormolu motifs. Seated atop of the clock case is the ormolu figure of Venus, her feet casually draped to one side, one foot raised on a step. Venus, her body superbly formed, holds an open book in one hand; she looks towards the diminutive figure of Amor, who has taken to one knee. The other side of the clock case is flanked by an ornate ormolu column topped with a basket of fruit surmounted by a single lovebird.