Rare And Monumental Empire Clock To The Glory Of Achilles Attributed To Pierre François Feuchère

Very rare gilded bronze clock called "To the Glory of Achilles". Attributed to the greatest bronzier of the end of the 18th century, Pierre François Feuchère (1737-1823) who worked for a very rich French and foreign clientele. Only one other copy of this clock to date is listed for sale. 4 models of clocks to the glory of Achilles were created during the Empire period and this one is the rarest. This exceptional clock represents Achilles at the gates of Troy. The quadrangular base supported by 4 powerful lion shanks is decorated in its center with a large bas-relief representing Priam who has come to beg Achilles to return the body of Hector to him (which Achilles will agree to do). The urn containing the ashes of Patroclus is behind Priam. The sides of the bas-relief are decorated with the hero's trophies (bows, swords, laurel wreaths). The terminal supporting Achilles' helmet is decorated with a bas-relief representing Peleus (Achilles' father) who prevents Thetis (Achilles' mother) from plunging Achilles into the cauldron of boiling water to verify his immortality. It measures 66 cm high x 44 cm wide and 13 cm deep. Enamel dial signed Bertrand in Paris. Very high quality of sculpture and chiseling with its matt and shiny gilding.