Beautiful Antique Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock. France, circa 1840

Beautiful Antique Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock. France, circa 1840

This beautiful mantel clock, made in France around 1840, is an exceptional piece that stands out for its elegant design and superb preservation. Crafted in gilt bronze using mercury gilding, a technique that imparts unmatched brilliance and durability, this clock is not only a testament to 19th-century art and engineering but also a work of art that will adorn any room.

The clock's structure is robust and intricately decorated. At the top, we find a winged figure, depicted with astonishing precision, representing Amor (Cupid) from Greek mythology. Cupid holds a spade, evoking images of gardening and fertility, symbolic elements of growth and renewal. The figure is sculpted in great detail, from the soft feathers of the wings to the folds of the garment, conveying a sense of movement and life.

Above the clock case stands an urn richly adorned with floral motifs. This urn not only adds height and elegance to the piece but also symbolizes abundance and natural beauty. The meticulous work on the floral details highlights the artisan's mastery in creating this clock.

On either side of the clock, gardening tools such as a rake and a hoe are crossed, reinforcing the theme of gardening and working the land. These tools, along with the basket of flowers on one side of the base, add a touch of realism and connection to nature, elements highly appreciated in the decor of the time.

The front of the clock is dominated by an elegant white enamel dial with black Roman numerals, making it easy to read the time. The finely crafted hands retain their original design and complement the overall aesthetic of the clock. The mechanism, equipped with silk thread suspension, is in perfect working order, ensuring that the clock strikes the hours and half-hours accurately on a bell, filling the room with a soft, pleasant sound.

The base of the clock is richly decorated with floral motifs and a central scene depicting Psyche and Amor, characters from Greek mythology. This scene is a tribute to the myth of the union of the soul (Psyche) with love (Amor), capturing a moment of intimate interaction between the two figures. These motifs are surrounded by intricate designs of foliage and flowers, all in relief, demonstrating the skill and artistry of the master who created this piece.

This mantel clock is not only a functional instrument but also a decorative piece of high aesthetic value. Its detailed design and impeccable condition make it a secure investment for collectors and antique lovers. Placing it in a living room, study, or library will not only add a touch of distinction but also serve as a conversation piece, fascinating any visitor with its history and beauty.

Don't miss the opportunity to acquire this clock, which will not only enhance any space but also keep the tradition of fine French watchmaking alive.

Dimensions: 39.5 cm (15.55 in) high, 26 cm (10.24 in) wide, 9.5 cm (3.74 in) deep.

History of Gilt Bronze Clocks:

Gilt bronze clocks became popular in France during the 18th and 19th centuries, especially during the Louis XVI and First Empire periods. The technique of mercury gilding, used to coat these clocks, involved applying an amalgam of gold and mercury to the bronze, then heating it to evaporate the mercury, leaving a layer of gold adhered. This process, though toxic, produced a bright and durable gilded surface. Clocks from this period were not only precision instruments but also works of art that demonstrated the wealth and refined taste of their owners. They became central pieces of interior decoration, symbolizing status and sophistication.