Octagonal Wall Clock Painted With Flowers, Napoleon III Era

French folk art, second half of the 19th century (circa 1860–1880)

A beautiful octagonal wall clock made of sheet metal, painted with a polychrome design of flowers and foliage on a darkened brown background. The enameled dial with Roman numerals is surrounded by a glazed, hinged brass bezel.

The back reveals a mechanical movement with a gong chime, featuring the original balance wheel and escapement. This type of clock was frequently manufactured in eastern France, in Franche-Comté or in the regions bordering Switzerland, where clockmakers produced decorative models intended for rural and middle-class interiors.

The hand-painted floral decoration and octagonal shape are reminiscent of certain late 19th-century pieces known as “provincial clocks” or “simplified Franche-Comté wall clocks.”

Dimensions:

• Height: 45 cm
• Width: 38 cm

Materials:

• Painted sheet metal
• Brass
• Domed glass
• Brass and steel movement

Condition:
Good overall condition. Signs of wear and patina on the painted decoration are consistent with its age. Movement is present and appears complete. Functionality should be verified by a specialized clockmaker.