French antique marble and ormolu mantel clock by Linke

This superb clock, large in stature, was crafted by Francois Linke (1855-1946). Born in the Czech Republic, he became one of the most prominent artisans of turn-of-the-century Paris. Linke’s designs are especially notable for blending the intricate floral and playful motifs of the Rococo era with the graceful, flowing lines of the Art Nouveau movement. This creates a striking fusion of two iconic artistic styles, as exemplified by this fine antique.

Mounted on a base of grey marble and supported by six turned feet, the body of the clock is made of brilliant white marble. The clock face, which is framed with ribbons and floral swags, is a convex white enamel and reads both Roman and Arabic numerals. The dial has twin winding holes for a French brass eight-day cylinder movement.

What makes this piece truly impressive is the ornate ormolu sculptures that decorate it. To the left, a woman in classical drapery uses a small stack of books to climb the plinth and with an extended arm she offers a wreath of flowers to a winged cherub perched at the top of the clock. Fabric cascades down the right side of the central column, drawing the eye towards a young boy kissing a dove. The plinth of the clock is inlaid with the same gold ormolu, depicting a dove nestled within rose briars.

The ormolu is marked ‘Linke’ for the renowned French maker.

This striking mantel clock is testament to the skill of a master craftsman and would make a fantastic addition to any interior space.