Empire Style 19th Century Mantel Clock

Royal Antique proudly presents this refined mantel clock, a remarkable collector's item, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and embodying the majestic aesthetic of the French Empire period. The case is made of beautifully sculpted red Griotte marble, renowned for its rich color and veining, enhanced with intricately chiseled gilt bronze mounts that elevate its aesthetic appeal.

Movement and Dial:

• Signed Dial: The enameled dial is prominently signed "Lépine à Paris," indicating its distinguished origin from one of the most renowned clockmaking families of the era. It features clear Roman numerals for the hours and finely crafted blued steel hands, a hallmark of quality French horology.

• Mechanical Movement: The clock is powered by a reliable eight-day mechanical movement, featuring a wire suspension pendulum, and chimes the hours and half-hours on a bell, offering both precise functionality and elegant acoustic charm. The pendulum itself is a richly ornamented gilt bronze classical mask, adding a touch of mythological allusion to its design.

• Serviced and Complete: This exquisite timepiece has recently undergone professional cleaning and servicing by a skilled horologist specializing in the maintenance of museum-quality timepieces. It is offered complete with its original pendulum, winding key, and bell, making it a fully functional and valuable addition to any discerning collection.

Case Design and Materials:

• Classical Portico Form: The clock takes the classical architectural form of a portico, with a central circular clock face elegantly suspended between two substantial round marble columns. The base is also a robust rectangular marble plinth, providing a stable and visually commanding foundation.

• Red Marble with Contrasts: The case is predominantly crafted from lustrous red Griotte marble, a prized material known for its deep, warm hues. This is beautifully contrasted with subtle white marble accents on the bases of the columns, presenting a harmonious blend of classical elegance and vibrant color.

• Finely Chiseled Gilt Bronze Mounts: It is exquisitely adorned with finely chiseled gilt bronze mounts that highlight its architectural structure and decorative elements. These include classical urns surmounting the columns, richly detailed decorative friezes, and other ornamental accents that speak to the period's love for classical motifs. The top is magnificently surmounted by a classical figure of a gracefully draped female, symbolizing art, knowledge, or a classical muse, adding a sculptural grandeur to the piece.

Historical Significance and Decorative Impact:

This mantel clock is a magnificent example of early 19th-century French horology and decorative arts, seamlessly blending precision engineering with exquisite aesthetic appeal characteristic of the Empire style. It would make a superb addition to any discerning collection, serving not only as a functional timepiece but also as a powerful decorative statement piece, embodying the grandeur and refined taste of a bygone era.