Cloisonné Enamel Fireplace Ornament, Circa 1860

Enameled cloisonné mantelpiece set, consisting of a clock and a pair of candelabra.
French work
Circa 1860


Dimensions

Clock
Height 43 cm
Width 21 cm
Depth 16 cm

Candelabras
Height 36 cm
Width 18 cm
Depth 11 cm



Description
This mantelpiece set is a magnificent example of the art of clockmaking, typical of 19th-century luxury pieces and strongly inspired by the Louis XV style. Its cloisonné enamel decoration, primarily in shades of turquoise with floral motifs, reveals high-quality goldsmithing. The vivid colors—particularly the shades of blue, green, and pink—evoke the champlevé enamel technique, highly prized in the 19th century for its luxurious and sophisticated effects.

The clock is mounted on a base supported by four legs, which lend it an elegant stability. The body of the clock is flanked by two finely chiseled gilded putti, with subtle details in their expressions, highlighting the high quality of French craftsmanship. The upper part of the clock, which resembles an ornamental vase, is also decorated with floral motifs in cloisonné enamel. It is topped by a finely crafted lid that completes the piece’s sumptuous appearance. 

The two gilded bronze and cloisonné enamel candelabra each feature two magnificently decorated arms, supported by gilded bronze putti. Each is positioned in a graceful pose, holding the base of the light arms, with finely chiseled wings that add a touch of elegance and harmony. The bases of the candelabra are adorned with cloisonné enamel in shades of turquoise, blue, and pink, featuring floral motifs. The contrast between the turquoise enamel and the gilded bronze creates a striking visual effect, enhancing the piece’s overall elegance. The candle arms are topped with candle holders also adorned with cloisonné enamel, echoing the motifs on the base, and are finely sculpted in the shape of acanthus leaves and volutes. Each candelabra features two candle holders, giving them an elegant and balanced symmetry.