Louis XVI-style Gilded Bronze Alcove Clock, L. Marti & Cie Movement, Late 19th Century

An alcove sconce made of chiseled and gilded bronze, crafted in the late 19th century in the Louis XVI style. With its compact dimensions and vertical composition, it belongs to the category of alcove clocks—small wall-mounted clocks originally designed to fit into confined spaces, particularly between paneling or in an alcove.

Its design is derived from Parisian models created in the 1770s. A very similar clock, signed by the clockmaker Frédéric Duval and dated around 1770, is held in the collections of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris. Crafted from chiseled and gilded bronze, this 18th-century example features comparable architectural elements and ornamentation: a circular body set within an openwork composition, lateral volutes, latticework, laurel garlands, and a leaf-decorated base. This clock is not an exact copy of that work, but a 19th-century interpretation that retains its general proportions and principal decorative elements. 

The circular dial is set within an openwork case whose sides, shaped in volutes, are adorned with latticework panels. A garland of laurel leaves, suspended on either side of the dial and joined by a ribbon bow, adorns the lower section. The cartouche is topped by a base composed of superimposed acanthus leaves, while the crown is formed by a flame framed by two pinecones. Rows of pearls, water leaves, channels, and moldings highlight the various joints of the case.

The ornamentation thus draws on the neoclassical style developed during the reign of Louis XVI, characterized by a return to symmetrical forms and motifs borrowed from antiquity. The openwork latticework adds depth to the composition and allows the sound of the bell at the back to resonate. The original gilding, preserved on all the bronze parts, has an even patina.

The white enamel dial, also original, displays the hours in Roman numerals and the minutes, in intervals of five, in Arabic numerals. It features two openwork hands and is protected by a domed glass cover that opens at the front. The enamel is in excellent condition.

The round movement, original and unmodified, bears the number 4573, the “H & F Paris” marking, and the stamp of the L. Marti & Cie manufactory, accompanied by the inscription “Médaille d’Or.” It controls the display of hours and minutes as well as the chime from a bell located at the back of the case.

Condition: The clock is in good overall condition. The gilding is original and remains well preserved. The enameled dial, the two hands, the domed glass, and the movement are original. The bell and the winding key are present. The movement starts up but requires servicing before use. The balance wheel is missing.

Dimensions
Height: 41 cm
Width: 19 cm