Clock Glass Century XVIIIe Watchmaker: Crosnier 1775

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This clock benefits from exceptionally precise dating thanks to the combination of two prestigious signatures appearing on its enamel dial. It is signed "Crosnier, Rue Saint-Honoré à Paris"—a Parisian clockmaker listed in Tardy’s *Dictionnaire des horlogers français*—placing its manufacture around 1775, during the height of the Louis XVI period. This attribution is reinforced by the second signature, that of the enameler "Coteau," inscribed at the bottom of the dial. Joseph Coteau, a renowned enameler active in the second half of the 18th century, is also listed in Tardy and remains one of the greatest masters of Parisian enameling. The joint presence of these two signatures is a rare feature, lending the clock remarkable historical authenticity and a perfectly consistent provenance.

This elegant four-glass "cage" clock exemplifies the refined Neoclassical taste of the early years of Louis XVI's reign. It is surmounted by a remarkable white marble covered vase, richly adorned with chased, mercury-gilt bronze mounts featuring scrolls, fruit garlands, and an elegant bouquet of leaves. The fully glazed rectangular case—comprising four glass panels—showcases the movement, making it visible from every angle, while the structure itself is crafted from finely chased, mercury-gilt bronze. At the center sits the magnificent white enamel dial, signed by both Crosnier and Coteau and delicately embellished with polychrome floral garlands. The signatures are elegantly underscored by gold lines, while each Roman numeral is accented by a raised gilt cabochon, adding a subtle touch of luxury to the overall design. The dial is framed by sumptuous bronze mounts featuring tied ribbons, vine leaves, grape clusters, acorns, and foliage—all emblems of abundance and prosperity. In the lower section, an elegant openwork design featuring interlaced ribbons, rosettes, floral garlands, and scrolling foliage lends lightness and refinement to the composition. Inside, the movement is beautifully animated by a sunburst pendulum; its golden rays shimmer behind the four glass panels, playing a key role in the mechanical spectacle offered by this exceptional clock. Finally, the piece rests on an understated white marble base, accented by twisted friezes and supported by four elegant, finely turned toupie feet.

Combining precise dating, two distinguished signatures, remarkable preservation, and a quality of craftsmanship worthy of the finest Parisian workshops, this clock is a premier piece for antique horology enthusiasts and discerning collectors alike. Authentic "cage" clocks from this period—retaining their original architecture, rich mercury gilding, and a dial signed by Crosnier and enamelled by Coteau—are highly sought after today. A true work of art as well as a timekeeping instrument, it captivates through the elegance of its proportions, the delicacy of its chasing, the transparency of its structure, and the nobility of its materials, making it a piece that is as rare as it is prestigious.

Original, unmodified mechanism with silk-thread suspension. Strikes the hours and half-hours on an antique bell with a clear, authentic tone.