French Religieuse Alarm Clock - Louis XIV Period - Fierville Caen Circa 1710

Rare religieuse alarm  clock signed in front plate  "M Fierville à Caen" that stands for the clockmaster Michel FIERVILLE, Caen,  France, Louis XIV period,  around 1710.

The rectangular  case is veneered with ebony and is surmounted by an arch pediment with an urn bronze finial . The fronton is typical of baroque style reminiscent of the first Haage clocks from  early 18th century period. The front case part inclusive of the door are adorned with very fine bronze inlays Boulle type marquetry over red colored turtle shell...

The movement is driven by a single barrel and has a duration of two weeks and the plates are fitted  together by means of well turned baluster pillars. It is being regulated by a verge escapement in combinaison with a silk suspended pendulum. The alarm mecanism is located at the rear of the movement and is activated by pulling a string at the back of the mecanism. The alarm setting is done using the front circular disc.

By the beginning of 18th century Michel Fierville was having the full responsability of commissionning the monumental clock with Gautier of the Saint Étienne church in Caen that was achieved in 1744 (Guillaume le Conquerant were buried  there)

Fierville was known for using the  best bronze goldsmiths in  PARIS  like Saint-Germain. Some of his clocks are on display in the  Musée des Arts décoratifs in Paris. 

Dimensions : 41 cms/22.5 cms/12.5 cms