Very fine French Empire period ormolu and malachite mantel clock

Dating to the French Empire period, this grand mantel clock is of impressive proportions and features very fine sculptural decoration, both in the round above and in relief on the front of the piece, against a rich green malachite veneer.

The exact movement of the clock comprises a circular, eight-day countwheel bell-striking mechanism, with a pendulum regulated anchor escapement, stamped for 'Jacquier, A Paris,' a well-attested early nineteenth century French clockmaker. The silvered-brass dial is marked with Roman numerals, also signed 'Jacquier, A Paris,' with steel moon hands in a lavishly adorned gilt-bronze laurel-wreath bezel.

The sculptural that surmounts the case depicts Caesar, dressed in a toga and crowned with laurels, supporting himself against a pedestal with a scroll in his left hand and a secondary crown besides. The relief to the front, cast in great Neoclassical style, as was popular during the Empire period, depicts the god Mars among trophies of war and Roman eagle standards. The case, with a later malachite veener, features an acanthus cast ogee moutned skirt, with further scrolling leaf motifs. An elegant sculptural piece as well as a grand historical clock, this beautiful antique work makes a sumptuous addition to the appropriate interior space.