Gilded Bronze Allegorical Chariot Clock, Empire Period

Gilt bronze chariot clock, Empire periodFrance, circa 1810–1820Dimensions: 54 cm high × 50 cm wideSuperb Empire period mantel clock, in finely chased and mercury-gilt bronze, depicting Cupid triumphant in an antique chariot drawn by two galloping horses. The movement is ingeniously integrated into the chariot wheel, with a white enameled dial with Roman numerals and blued steel hands. Winged Cupid (Cupid) holds the reins in one hand and a flaming torch in the other—a classic symbol of passionate love. The chariot is adorned with refined neoclassical motifs and rests on a rectangular base richly decorated with a bas-relief frieze depicting a Bacchic procession, with dancing figures, putti and musicians. The base rests on four volute feet, giving the whole a lightness and elegance. An exceptional piece for the quality of its chiseling, the richness of its original gilding and the poetry of its mythological composition. A decorative and technical masterpiece from the early 19th century, in a very beautiful state of preservation.