Portico Clock, Empire

Empire Period Portico Clock - White Marble and Gilt Bronze, France, early 19th century. Height: 45 cm. This remarkable portico clock exquisitely illustrates the Empire aesthetic, inspired by classical antiquity and emblematic of the early 19th century. The clock's body is crafted from polished white marble, enhanced by rich ornamentation in finely chased and mercury-gilded bronze. The architectural composition rests on two cylindrical columns with gilt capitals, supporting an elegantly curved entablature. The circular dial, framed by a wide gilt bronze bezel, features white enamel with Roman numerals, signed "Tarande à Paris - Faubourg Saint-Honoré," attesting to its high-quality Parisian craftsmanship. The finely openwork gilt bronze hands complete the harmony of the whole. Below the dial, a sumptuous gilt bronze drapery, treated in the manner of antique tapestries, underscores the decorative richness of the piece. The exposed pendulum is adorned with a radiant mascaron, reinforcing the solar symbolism so dear to the Empire style. The top of the clock is crowned with two gilt bronze doves, symbols of peace and harmony, adding a poetic touch to this monumental composition despite its elegant proportions.