Large Pendulum Clock And Its Louis XIV-era Console Table By Jean Varin, Featuring Boulle Marquetry

Large cartel clock with its Louis XIV–Regency-style console—very early 18th century. Movement signed “J Jean Varin” on the plate.

Richly decorated with Boulle marquetry (brown tortoiseshell and brass), finely chiseled and gilded bronze (mercury-gilded bronze). Highly architecturally designed, the clock is crowned by a dome featuring a young Bacchus. On the front, beneath the movement drum, is a gilded bronze relief plaque depicting Neptune’s chariot drawn by sea horses.

The gilded bronze dial, featuring a central Bérain-style decoration, consists of 12 enameled cartouches indicating the hours in blue Roman numerals on enamel plates. Below, the case is finished with scrollwork in high relief at the corners and a large shell motif in the center.

Our exquisite clock is characteristic of the Louis XIV style of the very early 18th century or the Regency period (1710s–1720s).

The original movement (with a suspension system modified in the 19th century), signed by J Jean Varin, is driven by a large balance wheel. It retains its original key.

Excellent condition; the buff-polished finish has been cleaned by our cabinetmaker; no missing pieces in the marquetry; the original mercury gilding is slightly faded but still present. The movement has been serviced and is in working order.

Height: 130 cm
Width: 33 cm