Gilded Bronze Mercury Clock From The Empire Period, 19th Century

Superb Empire period clock, early XIXᵉ century, in finely chased bronze and gilded with mercury, illustrating a refined allegorical composition around the muse Urania, symbol of astronomy and science.

The scene is dominated, on the right, by an elegant female figure draped in antique style, representing Urania. Standing in a noble, serene posture, she holds an open book in her hand, evoking knowledge and the study of the stars. Her treatment is of great finesse, both in the modeling of the face and in the delicate rendering of the drapery, characteristic of the neoclassical taste of the Empire period.

To the left of the dial, a fluted column is surmounted by a blue enamel celestial sphere encircled by gilded bronze, an explicit symbol of astronomy.
The circular dial is adorned with black Roman numerals on a gilded guilloché background, with finely worked hands.

The top of the clock is embellished with an architectural element evoking an altar or pedestal, surmounted by an antique male bust, reinforcing the scholarly and classical dimension of the whole.

The rectangular base is richly decorated with a finely chiseled bas-relief depicting putti (lovers) manipulating scientific instruments (globe, compass, sundial), illustrating the arts and sciences.
The ensemble rests on four scrolled feet decorated with foliage.

The original gilding is well preserved, showing a beautiful alternating matt and shiny patina, typical of quality bronzes of this period.

Wire movement (key present), to be revised if necessary.

Epoque: Empire.

Materials: mercury gilded bronze .
very good overall condition .

Measures 43 CM Height and 31 CM Length .

Emblematic piece of neoclassical taste, this clock combines elegance, symbolism and quality craftsmanship, ideal for a collection or refined decor.