Religious Clock In Red Tortoiseshell And Gilt Bronze, Paris, Louis XIV Period

Religious clock in red tortoiseshell and gilt bronze, signed Jean Minoche in Paris Louis XIV period – late 17th, early 18th century. Religious clock of fine quality, with an architectural form, typical of the Louis XIV style, made of quarter-sawn oak, a species sought after for its stability and finesse, frequently used in the great Parisian cabinetmaking. It is veneered with red tortoiseshell punctuated with brass fillets forming rectilinear frames. The whole is decorated with original bronzes: Medici-shaped fire pots (evoking classical roof decorations), friezes of lambrequins (a typical motif under Louis XIV, present in particular according to the drawings on the king's large silver console), consoles decorated with flower falls supporting the arched pediment, and acanthus leaves adorning the edges of the dome, top feet with goderons. These decorative elements reflect all the rigor and majesty of Versailles classicism. The gilt bronze dial, finely engraved with facing dolphins and foliage, features domed enameled cartouches with cobalt blue Roman numerals. In the lower section, two allegorical female figures embody the cultural pillars of the Grand Siècle: On the left, a Renown or allegory of Abundance, holding a cornucopia, with a crown placed at her feet, symbols of wealth, generosity and glorious reputation. On the right, Science or Knowledge, reading a book, accompanied by a globe and scholarly instruments (compass, table), a reference to the spirit of observation and intellectual progress of the 17th century. They frame a central cartouche signed J. Minoche in Paris. The movement, also signed Jean Minoche Paris on the reverse, is original but incomplete: it is missing the balance, the winding key, the striking hammer as well as the front door glass. However, the case is in a very good condition, with its bronzes and veneers intact and a beautiful patina. A collector's item, expertly crafted, a testament to Parisian watchmaking and ornamental expertise from the end of the 17th century, combining architectural rigor, allegorical symbolism and technical virtuosity. Dimensions: Total height: 63 cm