Rare Empire Period Allegorical Clock, "love Moving The Heavens" - Gilt Bronze, Circa 1810

A very beautiful and rare Empire period allegorical clock, depicting Love moving the heavens. This Empire period allegorical clock, crafted from chased, gilt, and partially blue-lacquered bronze, represents Love moving the heavens. It is an allegory of the power of love and honesty to overcome war or any other misfortune. On the left, we see a young Eros (symbolizing love) pushing the celestial sphere in an attempt to move the heavens. The blue-lacquered celestial sphere, which houses the clockwork mechanism, is adorned with gilt-bronze stars. It also features ornaments in the form of the zodiac signs: Libra and Cancer. On the right, we see a jester (or joker), which can be interpreted as a symbol of common sense or honesty, but also of the power to triumph over obstacles or death. The front of the base depicts Athena, here in her military attire as the goddess of war. She is chained by her wrist, rendering her powerless. On the sides of the base, we see crossed torches and arrows, typical symbols of Eros. The four central legs are also shaped like a quiver of arrows, another symbol of Eros. Between them, we see a flowerpot from which grows a grapevine, a symbol of prosperity. At both ends, the base is supported by claw feet. In good condition, complete, with some wear to the gilding on the oval base (see photos). Comes with its original pendulum and key, in excellent working order, serviced by a watchmaker. Dimensions: H 32 x W 35 x D 10 cm