Antique French Gilt Bronze and Sèvres Porcelain Clock ~ French - Circa 1890 ~ ~~ Excellent condition, fully overhauled ~~ A highly decorative and beautifully modelled French gilt-bronze mantel clock, of elegant Louis XV Rococo revival design, surmounted by an exceptionally charming putto. Set within the sweeping gilt-bronze scrollwork is a finely painted Sèvres style porcelain panel, exquisitely decorated with scene of a couple walking in an elegant country garden.

The composition depicts an elegantly attired couple in fashionable Rococo dress, standing together upon a garden terrace. The lady, dressed in a soft pastel gown with delicate folds and shimmering highlights, extends her hand toward her companion, who is richly attired in a lilac coat with gilt accents.

Behind them, a classical balustrade and urns overflowing with flowers frame the scene, while a softly rendered landscape recedes into a gentle, atmospheric distance. The artist’s careful handling of colour, particularly the powdered blues, rose pinks, and warm gold detailing, is characteristic of Sèvres inspired decoration from the late 19th century. The panel is bordered by a gilt cartouche reserve that harmonises beautifully with the surrounding Rococo gilt-bronze mounts.

The clock is surmounted by an exquisitely modelled gilt bronze cherub, seated among richly chased acanthus leaves and floral sprays. The putto is rendered with exceptional delicacy, his youthful features are softly rounded, his expression gently contemplative yet animated by a sense of playful movement. One arm is raised in a lively gesture, while the other rests upon a scroll. The case itself is profusely adorned with exuberant, asymmetrical rocaille motifs, crisply modelled, characteristic of the best Parisian bronziers of the Belle Époque.

The circular dial is exquisitely decorated porcelain in the Sèvres manner, featuring a delicately painted cherub on an ivory ground framed by gilt cartouches with Roman numerals. Finely cut brass hands complete the ensemble.

The French movement is of high quality and is by Samuel Marti. It is in excellent clean and running condition having been fully overhauled by our clockmaker. Pendulum is original. It runs for 8 days and strikes the hours and halves on a bell. Click the video below to hear the bell and watch the clock running.

Condition of the case is excellent, beautifully clean and bright with hardly any wear or discolouration. The porcelain is also in very good condition with no damage. The glass has been replaced. 

  
Samuel Marti clockmaker's mark on the movement backplate and along with the retailers mark

Complete with original pendulum, bell and a suitable key. Full setting up instructions supplied if required.

Click the movie player below to see the this actual clock run -
(large file, may take a moment to start).