"Louis XVI Clock Representing Ceres – Paris, Circa 1780"
An exceptional French Louis XVI period clock, finely crafted in gilt bronze and white marble. The enameled dial, signed Léron in Paris, is surmounted by the Roman goddess Ceres, symbol of fertility, harvests, and natural abundance. She holds sheaves of wheat and flowers in her hands, embodying classical grace and serenity. On either side, two playful putti each sit on a dog—a rare iconographic motif, representing loyalty and protection. The white marble base is adorned with finely chiseled gilt bronze appliques, depicting classical scenes in relief and a central solar motif – a possible allusion to Apollo or the passage of time. A rare and refined masterpiece of late 18th-century Parisian bronze art, where allegory, craftsmanship and neoclassical elegance come together. Dimensions: 54 × 50 × 14 cm Paris, circa 1780 Signature on the dial: Léron à Paris