Large Louis XV Clock With Console, Signed Balthazar Lieutaud & Joffroy In Besançon, Mid-19th Century

A large cartel clock signed by Joffroy de Besançon (clockmaker active around 1760) and Balthazar Lieutaud (cabinetmaker, 1720-1780) with an enamel dial featuring Roman numerals for the hours and Arabic numerals for the minutes. The highly elaborate Louis XV style is omnipresent. The streamlined case, made of gilt bronze and adorned with rich rocaille motifs, is crowned with a free-form openwork rocaille motif. The surfaces are finely detailed, contrasting with the delicate marquetry of vine leaves and flowers crafted from various metals. The case opens on the sides. The console is designed to harmonize with the clock, complementing the dynamic effect of the clock's tapered lower half. Dimensions of the clock (without the console): 77 x 36 x 17 cm. Dimensions of the console: 30 x 45 x 23 cm. For similar pieces, see: Pierre Kjellberg, Encyclopédie de la Pendule française, Paris 1997, pp. 82f.