Louis XVI Clock, In Bronze And White Marble

Important Louis XVI Style Portico Clock, White Marble and Gilt Bronze - France, 19th Century. This sumptuous portico clock brilliantly illustrates the refinement of the Louis XVI style, characterized by its architectural balance, the delicacy of its decoration, and its direct inspiration from Antiquity. The structure is made of carefully polished, veined white marble and is built around four cylindrical columns resting on a molded rectangular base. The whole is richly enhanced by exceptional decoration in finely chased and mercury-gilded bronze, the quality of which testifies to Parisian craftsmanship of the highest order. The circular white enamel dial, adorned with hand-painted Arabic numerals, is decorated with delicate polychrome floral scrolls. It is framed by an elegant gilt bronze laurel wreath, a symbol of victory and eternity, surmounted by hanging garlands connected to an antique cup forming the upper finial. The finely crafted, openworked hands in gilt bronze enhance the lightness and elegance of the composition. The original mechanical movement, visible on the back, bears a French maker's mark and a serial number, attesting to high-quality Parisian watchmaking at the end of the 18th century. The balance wheel, visible on the front, is adorned with a radiant sunburst mascaron, an emblematic motif of the Neoclassical period. The base is adorned with beaded friezes, rosettes, acanthus leaves, and cartouches, arranged with remarkable harmony, lending the piece a majestic presence while maintaining great visual elegance. Characteristics: Type: Portico clock Style: Louis XVI Period: Late 18th century Origin: France (Parisian work) Materials: White marble, mercury-gilt bronze Dial: Hand-painted enamel, Arabic numerals Decoration: Laurel wreath, garlands, antique cup, sunburst mask Movement: Original mechanical winding mechanism Condition: Very good condition, natural wear consistent with age