Ormolu antique French clock and barometer set by Mottheau

This superb Louis XVI style wall clock and barometer set features extensive ormolu detailing, that evokes the lavishness of the period. The two pieces are of the same size and have almost identical gilding.

The enamel clock dial is marked with large Roman numerals. The enamel is inset within a gilt bronze overlay, the centre of which is carved with various decorative motifs, including a lion mask, scallop shell cartouches, and scrolling forms. The enamel barometer features a visible mechanism to the centre, with the conditions inscribed in French around the outer edges. Both dials are set within a gilded leaf-and-dart style bezel.

Surmounting each side of the dials are a pair of trumpet-wielding winged cherubs, whose bodies terminate midway into embellished cornucopia. The cases themselves extend into an ornamental base, in the form of a tiered pillar with scrolling forms applied. Each terminates in a pinecone finial. Both elements are surmounted by a patinated bronze sphere, which rests within an acanthus leaf-style support. Each sphere is capped with a decorative crown.

The barometer face is signed to the lower edge ‘E. Mottheau Paris’: Maison Mottheau et Fils was a notable design and bronzier firm, operating in late 19th century Paris. The clock movement is signed by the manufacturers ‘LEMERLE CHARPENTIER’ and ‘LESIEUR’: Lemerle-Charpentier & Compagnie are especially well-known for their clock and garniture sets, winning a Gold Medal at the Exposition Universelle in Paris in 1878, for their exhibit of mantel clocks, garnitures, candelabra, torcheres and vases.

Heavily embellished with a wide variety of ornaments, this excellent set would make a fine addition to the appropriate interior.