Large antique French ormolu and malachite mantel clock

Created in France in the 19th century, this beautifully-crafted gilded bronze clock shows a man on horseback blowing into a hunting horn as he chases down a stag. Accompanying him are two dogs, their legs outstretched, propelling them forwards in the hunt. The horse too is exquisitely made, depicted in full gallop with its neck arched and tail flying back in the wind. The clock reveals the craftsman's ability to depict figures and animals with real skill.

The clock face is composed of a central circular enamel dial, perfectly framed by the hunting scene above and by the two oak branches, crossed over and tied, positioned below. Note the small, intricate detail of the acorns and acorn shells seen amongst the leaves of the oak branches. The dial is signed 'Azur a Paris'.

The gold of the upper composition is well balanced by the green of the malachite base. This base is then articulated by moments of gilded bronze, such as the gold ornamental band located beneath the bound oak branches.

The clock is supported on elegant scrolls, composed of curled oak branches containing different species of bird and mammal. In the left-hand scroll, a small bird leans into the centre and cranes its neck upwards towards an oak leaf. In the right, a wild boar turns towards the central composition, its tongue lolling out of its mouth.

In the middle of the base, a group of animals are symmetrically arranged, with a hound on the left hand side perfectly balanced by a long-billed bird, possibly an egret or avocet. The bodies of these two animals extend upwards to the clock face above. Between them are two small garden birds, similarly gazing upwards to the central clock dial.

This ormolu and malachite clock, with its beautiful depiction of a rural idyll, would make an elegant addition to any well-furnished home.