Large French Napoleon III period ormolu mantel clock

This large mantel clock is architectural in its form. The clock is placed on a shaped and spreading base, which is edged with wreath-like bands of foliage. On this base, there stands four full-length female figures, who adopt classical contrapposto poses and wear flowing, diaphanous dresses. These support the clock case, along with a central tapering column, decorated with strapwork and scrolled acanthus leaves.

The clock case has a gadrooned cushioned base with leafy terminals, which is mounted with Grotesque masks on its front and reverse. Draperies issue from the masks’ mouths, and wind around the women’s raised arms. The body of the case is arched and features a highly ornate central circular dial, with black Roman Numerals contained within white enamel frames. The arched case is topped by two sculptural putti, who pull at fabrics draped over a central cartouche. The case is surmounted by a pointed architectural cupola form, with a foliate top and pomegranate finial.

An almost identical clock sold at Christie’s London Sale 1113, ‘The Opulent Eye – 500 Years: Decorative Arts Europe’, on 14th March 2013, Lot 82.