Important Period Clock From The Napoleon III Era -

A rare and important Napoleon III-era clock depicting a young bacchante accompanied by a goat—a remarkable allegorical composition inspired by the procession of Bacchus, the god of wine and the grape harvest.

With a particularly imposing presence, standing 57 cm tall, this clock is a true decorative and collector’s piece. It beautifully combines the richness of finely gold-gilded bronze, the depth of high-quality patinated bronze, and the elegance of white marble accents.

At the top, the young woman, dressed in ancient style and wearing a wreath of vine leaves, tenderly holds a goat by her side. The sculpted group features beautiful modeling and fine craftsmanship, while the architecturally designed base is richly adorned with grape clusters, foliage, scrollwork, and motifs inspired by the Louis XV decorative repertoire, which was revived during the Second Empire.

The enameled dial is signed “J.B. Marchand, 59 rue de Richelieu”, a renowned 19th-century Parisian address. It is framed by a gilded bronze bezel of great decorative richness.

The clock is in very good overall condition. The gilding, which is particularly lustrous, beautifully highlights the delicacy of the engraving. The movement is complete with its key, pendulum, and gong, and is in working order.

With its substantial size, the quality of its gilding, and the originality of its design, this clock is a remarkable testament to the decorative tastes of the Second Empire. It will naturally find its place in a classical interior, a collection of French clocks, or on a prestigious mantelpiece.

A beautiful and imposing 19th-century Parisian creation, combining decorative quality, elegance, and presence.