Portico Clock In Boulle Marquetry And Gilt Bronze – Napoleon III Period – 19th Century

A Boulle marquetry and gilt bronze portico clock – Napoleon III period – 19th century. An elegant Napoleon III period portico clock, made in the 19th century in the style of Louis XIV models. The architectural structure rests on four twisted columns of blackened wood, rhythmically framing a richly ornamented circular dial in gilt bronze. The dial features finely chased decoration, embellished with a mascaron at the top and a shell motif at the bottom. The white enamel dial with Roman numerals is marked with two openings for winding and retains its original gilt bronze hands. The whole is surmounted by an entablature decorated with Boulle marquetry, combining scrolls and floral motifs in brass on a tortoiseshell or imitation tortoiseshell background. The base, also adorned with marquetry, rests on discreet feet and supports a decorative pendulum with a rich mascaron motif. A winding key is included. High-quality French craftsmanship, characteristic of the historicist taste of the Second Empire. Period: 19th century (Napoleon III) Style: Louis XIV (in the style of) Condition: Good overall condition. Signs of wear and minor alterations to the marquetry. Functioning needs servicing. Dimensions: H 48 x W 25 x D 13 cm. This clock is a refined decorative piece, ideal for a mantelpiece or a classically styled interior.