Ormolu and Sèvres Porcelain Clock by Achille Brocot ~ French - Circa 1860 ~ ~~ Excellent condition, fully overhauled ~~ A fine and early ormolu (finely gilded bronze) and Sèvres-style porcelain clock by the renowned maker Achille Brocot, retailed by the illustrious London firm of Charles Frodsham & Co. The porcelain is of a beautiful and rare violet coloured ground, exquisitely decorated with classical motifs depicting musical instruments amongst delicate trailing acanthus.

The rectangular architectural case is finely cast and richly gilded, the façade flanked by reeded pilasters and embellished throughout with crisply modelled foliate and classical ornament.

The porcelain dial is beautifully decorated, with individual white cartouche reserves for the Roman numerals and applied porcelain jewels adding further richness and detail. Fine blued-steel hands indicate the time. Above, the clock is surmounted by a magnificent porcelain urn with domed cover and gilt finial, embraced by elaborate scrolling ormolu handles and raised upon a spreading gilt-bronze socle.

Of particular note are the finely modelled sculptural mounts adorning either side of the case, together with the luxuriant floral and foliate ornament arranged around the lower section. The clock is raised upon a handsome shaped gesso base, providing an elegant foundation for the richly decorated case.

The unusual combination of finely gilded bronze and vivid violet porcelain gives the clock considerable presence. The quality of the casting, gilding and applied ornament, combined with the exceptionally decorative porcelain, is characteristic of the finest French decorative arts of the nineteenth century.

The high-quality French movement is by the renowned maker Achille Brocot and is in excellent, clean running condition, having been fully overhauled by our clockmaker. The original pendulum is present. The movement runs for eight days and strikes the hours and half-hours on a bell. Please note that, as is characteristic of this particular style of clock, it was made without front or rear bezels. Click the video below to hear the bell and see the clock running.

The condition of the case is excellent, with the original gilding remaining beautifully clean and bright, showing only very occasional areas of slight wear and discolouration consistent with age. The porcelain is also in very good condition; the dial has some minor nibbles around the winding holes, and a small number of the half-hour porcelain ‘jewels’ are missing. The shaped gesso base has been sympathetically re-covered with fresh fabric, carefully chosen to complement the rich violet colour of the porcelain. There is some slight wear to the gesso base, particularly on the corners. 

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).