Louis XVI style lapis lazuli and gilt metal mantel clock

This clock stands on a rectangular lapis lazuli base, which is set on four gilt metal feet, the front two of which are decorated with beading and stylised foliage. The stepped-back centre of the base is mounted with a classical female mask, with scrolls and palmette flourishes. The base’s projecting wings feature gilt metal diamond motifs with jewel-like lapis centres, and the sides are fitted with two gilt metal acanthus leaf scrolls. A gilt metal twisted rope border runs along the upper edge of the base.

Above, the clock body stands on two lapis block legs, which are set on four gilt metal toupie feet. The clock’s lapis and ormolu pendulum hangs in the space between the two legs. The tall arched lapis body is flanked by four classical lapis columns, two on each side. These feature gilt metal foliate bases and capitals, and beaded central bands. These columns support two projecting wings, each of which is topped by two gilt metal mounted lapis finials with pinecone tips. The arched lapis clock body is decorated with a gilt metal scrolled acanthus leaf motif and a stylised gilt metal rosette, enclosed within a shaped beaded gilt metal frame. At its top centre, the body is mounted with a circular dial with a lapis centre decorated with parcel gilt foliate motifs, and an onyx outer ring with parcel gilt Roman Numerals. This dial is contained within a gilt metal egg-and-dart and beaded bezel. The clock’s arched top is crowned by a gilt metal laurel leaf motif, and surmounted by a gilt metal acorn finial.

‘M. A & Co’ is stamped onto the clock’s movement.