Lépine Horloger Du Roi - Diana The Huntress - Empire Period Gilt Bronze Clock

Sumptuous finely chiseled gilt bronze mantel clock, Empire period, circa 1810. With an imposing height of 49 cm, it depicts a female figure draped in the antique style, holding a bow and accompanied by a dog. These symbolic attributes allow us to most likely identify her as Diana the Huntress, goddess of the hunt in Roman mythology, associated with the moon and wild nature. The circular gilt bronze dial is signed Lépine Horloger du Roi, a prestigious reference in 18th century French watchmaking. Jean-Antoine Lépine (1720-1814) was one of the most renowned watchmakers of his time. Clockmaker to King Louis XV and then Louis XVI, he revolutionized watchmaking mechanics with fundamental inventions, including the so-called "bridge" system, and participated in the simplification of watch movements. His client was also Napoleon I, which explains the frequent presence of his works under the Empire. Its name on the dial is a guarantee of refinement and quality. The movement is a Brocot movement (not silk thread), working perfectly, complete with its bell, its balance and its original key. It has not been serviced recently but remains in excellent working order. The decoration of the base takes up the neoclassical motifs specific to the Empire: lyres, foliage, attributes of music and hunting. A rare and majestic piece, ideal for a demanding collection or an imperial decoration.