Important Cartel From The Louis XV Period By Lépine

Important cartel in gilded bronze, with rocaille decoration of foliage, curves and counter-curves and laterally of vine branches. It is adorned with the damping of a cloud from which escape a few rays of sun and two winged putti, one holding a flaming torch in his hand.

On each side as well as under the pendulum, brass grids gilded with mercury are openworked with foliage and flowers.

The hands are finely chiselled and gilded. It has mercury gilding in very good condition, worked in matte and shiny polish, revealing the carving of the sculpture.

The rococo style, the result of an increased inclination of the elites for a refined art of living, is essentially characterized by the presence of naturalistic ornamentation (from which it moreover takes its name), inspired by shells and rocks, plant and floral elements. It is also characterized by the use of the curved line. Rococo furniture and art objects, like our cartel, fit into refined interiors. Born in France, this art of living of a great softness contributes not only to the influence of the country, but also to the diffusion and the popularity of the rockery style in Europe.

The white enamel dial bears the inscription "LEPINNE, Horloger du Roi à Paris". This inscription is engraved on the back plate of the movement. Born in Challex in 1720, Jean-Antoine Lépine did his apprenticeship at Saconex and at the age of 24, he left for Paris where he joined André-Charles Caron (father of the famous Beaumarchais) whose daughter he married in 1756. Received master in 1762 , he worked rue Saint Denis, then place Dauphine, and finally quai de l'Horloge. Due to the quality of his work and his reputation, he became the King's watchmaker. He died in 1814.

The original movement has been revised. It strikes the hours and half-hours as it passes. A technical improvement made in the 19th century made it possible to modify the wire escapement by a strip escapement, which gives it greater precision of adjustment.

Parisian work circa 1765.
Movement in perfect working order, revised and guaranteed.
Height: 83cm.
Width: 48cm.

Delivery worldwide.