Magnificent antique bronze mantel clock. France, 19th Century

This awesome antique mantel clock, made of bronze, comes from France and is dated in the 19th century. It is an impressive piece; its movement was made by Japy Freres and chimes the hours and the halves. The clock mounts a visible sun-shaped pendulum bob, with a lovely design depicting a cherubs face surrounded by sunbeams. The beams show different lengths and make up a charming asymmetrical composition. The clocks movement has been fully fine-tuned and works perfectly. In the movement we can see a circular mark with the manufacturers name inside, JAPY FRERES. This clockmaker company was founded in 1771 in Beaucourt, France, by Georges Frederic Japy. As well as mantel clocks like the one we can see in the photographs, the firm also manufactured toys, locks, chains and kitchen tools among other utensils. With the trace of time the business grew and it eventually employed around 300 persons. After over two hundred years history, the company (always a family business) closed down. If this clocks movement draws our attention for its quality and precision, the bronze box does not lag behind. Its pyramid-shape design is light and airy, composed of moldings, leaves and embossed details symmetrically disposed. The box is not compact and closed but it shows a great numbers of gaps and small windows, creating a lovely bronze filigree design. The back carries a repair that is not visible from the front. At the front, under the clocks face (with black Roman numbers on white individual pieces) there is a fine mask that stands out in the design. The face is protected by a circular glass pane, original from the period. The elegance and quality of this amazing mantel clock turn it into a first-class piece, as beautiful as antique. Measurements: Width: 14.5 in / 37 cm. Height: 18.5 in / 47 cm.