Clock Portico Empire

An exceptional Empire-period portico clock, created circa 1810, thiselegant masterpiece superbly illustrates, with rare refinement, themonumental and solemn aesthetic of the decorative arts of the FirstEmpire. Its architecture, remarkable for the purity of its classicallines, is entirely crafted from white marble, whose luminous softnesscontrasts magnificently with the sumptuous ornamentation of finelychased and mercury-gilt bronze. The harmony of its proportions, thenobility of its materials and the particularly meticulous quality ofits execution endow this clock with a presence that is both majesticand delicate.

The composition is distinguished by an imposing curved pediment inwhite marble, enhanced with architectural mouldings and flanked by twoelegant entablatures surmounted by antique-style gilt-bronze vases.Four slender cylindrical columns support the structure, resting uponsquare bases enriched with finely chased bands and mouldings. At thecentre, the movement is majestically suspended within a remarkablecircular gilt-bronze surround, delicately decorated with friezes,beadwork and ornamental motifs. The white dial with Roman numerals isframed by a richly sculpted bezel and surmounted by a spectacularnetted drapery, rendered in gilt bronze with remarkable virtuosity inimitation of textile, its fringes falling with striking naturalism.Beneath the ensemble, the pendulum, animated by a radiant sun with ahuman face, brings a poetic and symbolic touch to this composition ofgreat elegance.

An authentic testament to the decorative arts of the Empire period,this portico clock is as captivating for the rigour of its neoclassicalarchitecture as for the extraordinary finesse of its gilt bronzes. Theimmaculate whiteness of the marble, the warm radiance of the mercurygilding and the richness of the decoration create a contrast of raresophistication. With its imposing proportions, its remarkable aestheticcondition and the exceptional quality of its decorative details, thisclock is a particularly compelling work, capable of commanding amantelpiece, console table or prestigious interior with great majesty.A true work of art, in which architectural beauty meets the virtuosityof the French bronziers of the early 19th century.

Original mechanism, intact and unaltered, with silk-thread suspension.Striking the hours and half-hours on an antique bell, producing a clearand authentic tone.