Antique Mantel Clock. Gilt Bronze. France, 1850

Gorgeous antique ormolu mantel clock, heavy and big in size and with a clear neoclassic style. The clock is dated in 1850 and comes from France. In spite of being more than one hundred and fifty years old, it is wonderfully preserved and works very well. It mounts a thread pendulum and chimes the hours and the halves, so as well as being a singularly decorative piece it delivers a crystal-clear sound too. The clock is composed of a straight-lined base, sturdy and with a fine architectural shape. This part consists of a bottom platform with three legs with a rectangular piece on top. This piece is decorated with a fine embossed ormolu motif that depicts Eross bow and arrows. This detail is directly connected with the sculptural group that crowns the clock, with two delicate ormolu figures who symbolize Eros and Psyche. In his work Methamorphosis, Ovidius tells us that Eros fell in love with Psyche and kidnapped her. Soon she also fell for her, but she made a mistake and Eros left her. After that she made many efforts to get him back; she succeeded and eventually Eross mother, Aphrodite, gave them her blessing. The sculptures that crown the clock are delicately and graciously made. They are naked and bear wings. Eros is lifting Psyches chin and she is putting a flowery garland over his head. Both figures flank the clocks face, located in a small temple-shaped piece and with black Roman numbers and hands. At the back of the clock there is an opening through which we can see the movement, bearing the following inscription: ANCNE. MON. FRANJUS RAISON & THOMAS SUCCESSEURS. The serial number 1854 is also clearly engraved in the metal. This antique ormolu mantel clocks delicate design is as interesting as its amazing working order. It is a luxury item worthy of the stateliest room. Measurements: Width: 25.60 in / 43 cm. Height: 16.93 in / 65 cm.