A Pair Of Ormolu Wall Sconces And A Barometer, Late 19th Century

Rare and elegant pair comprising a wall cartel clock and its matching barometer, executed in the Louis XVI style during the Napoleon III period, circa 1880, in finely chased gilt bronze with green patina.

Of circular form, each piece is framed by a delicate beaded border and enriched with an openwork laurel wreath set against a contrasting green patinated ground, a hallmark of the neoclassical decorative vocabulary. Both elements are suspended from an elaborately pierced tied-ribbon crest, an iconic Louis XVI motif that lends the ensemble its refined and harmonious appearance.

The cartel clock is fitted with a white enamel dial with Roman numerals for the hours and Arabic numerals for the minutes. The accompanying barometer features a matching enamel dial with weather indications in French: “Tempête” (Stormy), “Grande Pluie” (Heavy Rain), “Pluie” (Rain), “Variable” (Changeable), “Beau Temps” (Fair Weather), and “Très Sec” (Very Dry).

This decorative wall ensemble is distinguished by the exceptional quality of its chasing, the refinement of its original mercury gilding, and the elegant contrast between the matte gilt bronze and the green patina.

French work from the Napoleon III period, circa 1880.

Dimensions:
Height: 59 cm (23.2 in.)
Width: 25 cm (9.8 in.)
Depth: 10 cm (3.9 in.)

Condition:
In excellent overall condition, with original gilding and patina beautifully preserved.