Louis XVI style ormolu clock and barometer set by Mottheau

This pair of instruments includes a clock and a barometer, both set within matching ormolu (gilt bronze) cases designed in the Louis XVI style. Each instrument contains a large central circular enamel dial. The clock dial, inscribed with Roman numeral hour marks and Arabic numeral five-minute marks, is marked with a rubbed illegible signature; the barometer dial is inscribed with various designations of air pressure and weather conditions.

The cases of both feature extensive ormolu foliate mounts, set about the top and sides. Below the dial of each instrument is a matching ormolu relief panel depicting a putto surrounded by an assemblage of classicising elements, such as laurel wreathes and pan flutes. The bottom of each case is mounted with an elaborate pendant finial, while the top is surmounted by an ormolu urn-form finial topped by a flambeau. The bronze throughout is exceptionally finely cast and finished and is beautifully gilded.