"Clock Known As "abundance" - Second Half Of The 19th Century - Napoleon III"
Superb mantel clock made during the Second Empire, known as the Abundance clock, a striking example of the decorative splendor characteristic of the Napoleon III period. Inspired by 18th-century models and the Louis XV rocaille style, it combines virtuosity of chiseling, richness of ornamentation and subtlety of contrasts. The base, largely animated and richly decorated with acanthus foliage, volutes and rocaille shells, presents a very fresh gilding. In the center, the white enameled dial with Roman and Arabic numerals, encircled by a finely chiseled garland, fits harmoniously into the opulence of the decor. Overlooking the whole, a patinated bronze figure embodies Abundance, seated in a graceful and majestic posture. The modeling of the face, the delicacy of the draperies and the refinement of the details reflect the excellence of the Parisian bronze workshops of the 19th century. Resting on four feet in powerful and symmetrical scrolls, this clock combines balance and theatricality, offering both an object of art and a functional piece, designed to magnify the bourgeois and aristocratic interiors of the second half of the 19th century. Condition Very good general condition. Bright and homogeneous gilding, intact dial. The movement needs to be revised: it seems to work but does not ring. Sold without warranty. - The two matching candelabra with six light arms visible in the photographs, in gilt bronze and rocaille style, are not included in this offer. They can be offered separately on request in order to reconstitute the complete mantelpiece.