French pink marble and gilt bronze clock garniture, 19th century

This beautiful French three-piece clock set is notable for its pink marble, an uncommon material which has been expertly sculpted for this garniture. The deep pink shade is superbly contrasted by the shining gilt bronze decoration, which features classical motifs.

The mantel clock features a porcelain dial with finely pierced gilt brass hands, as well as delicate floral framing that complements the tones of the pink marble. The dial is surmounted by an ormolu laurel and torch cresting. Similar classical decoration features at the sides of the clock, which is flanked by two Caryatid mounts whose elegant bodies terminate in goat hoof feet. Two further hoof feet adorn the front and back, and all four feet feature acanthus leaf design.

The main body of the clock as well as the upper layer of its plinth are carved from a deep pink marble, which is beautifully veined. Particularly fine is the urn-shaped body, which culminates in a fluted marble top that is highly unusual. The clock is surmounted by an ormolu foliate finial of similar classical design. The gilt bronze plinth features well-cast drapery, atop toupie feet with foliate patterning.

The two en-suite candelabra are similarly designed, with fluted marble bodies that are flanked by hoofed caryatids, and sit atop an ornate plinth. Four light fixtures adorn each candelabra, with one capital atop the stem, and three atop branching arms. The capitals and arms complement the design with further foliate decoration.

The dial features the retailer's mark: ‘Mercery & Cie 12 Rue du Parc Royal Paris’. 

Employing both an unusual design and unusual materials, this stunning set is a wonderful collector’s item.

Clock: Height 46cm, width 23cm, depth 18cm
Candelabra: Height 44.5cm, width 22cm, depth 20cm