Francia : „Empire / Neoclassical” - óragyártók

Contemplative muse ormolu mantel clock

Large gold-plated bronze mantel clock (approx. 50 x 43 cm), with a powerful Empire–Neoclassical composition. The upper group features a seated, classicizing female figure draped in a loosely falling himation, with finely crafted folds; her head is tilted slightly to the side, resting her elbow on her knee, in a melancholic, contemplative gesture. Below is an architectural pedestal with a circular dial on the front; the center is elegantly decorated, with the Roman numerals appearing in cobalt blue enamel cartouches with white letters. The case is richly adorned with leaves and garlands, volutes, and grotesque-masked consoles on the sides, while the base is surrounded by egg-and-dart molding and a prominent Greek meander frieze. The surface has a silky sheen, with wear in places, exhibiting the warm tone characteristic of old mercury gilding; the bronze carving is deep and plastic. The contrasts of light and shadow are well expressed in the folds of the clothing and the ornamentation. According to iconography, a muse or allegorical female figure may be depicted. Style: French Empire/Neoclassicism; likely 1805–1825, possibly Restoration, 1820s.

Key Details:

• Cobalt blue dial marked with enamel cartouche Roman numerals

• Grotesque-masked side consoles and garlands

• Greek key (meander) frieze on the pedestal

• Satin, partially worn ormolu gilding

• Classicizing seated female figure with delicate handling of folds