19th-century Louis XV Cartel Clock

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An exceptional Louis XV Rocaille-style cartel clock, created during the Second Empire around 1860, this spectacular piece bears witness to the decorative virtuosity of 19th-century French bronze makers. Entirely crafted in richly gilded bronze, it displays a particularly substantial, dynamic and sculptural architecture, whose powerful volumes rival the delicacy of its ornamentation. Its movement is stamped “Mougin”, a clockmaker listed in Tardy’s Dictionary of French Clockmakers, providing valuable evidence of authenticity to this remarkable work of horology.

The composition unfolds with remarkable theatrical elegance. The summit is crowned by a graceful musical putto, delicately seated and playing the lyre, lending the ensemble a poetic and allegorical dimension. He presides over an openwork and animated architectural structure, enriched with seven pierced grille panels, creating subtle plays of light and shadow throughout the composition. The circular white enamel dial, bearing both Roman and Arabic numerals, is framed by elaborate mouldings and enlivened with finely pierced hands. Around it unfold powerful acanthus leaves, Rocaille scrolls, stylised shells and broad asymmetrical volutes. The particularly spectacular lower section rests upon a generously shaped base, whose extremities flourish into majestic leafy scrolls, lending the entire composition a silhouette of extraordinary lightness despite the considerable thickness and weight of the bronze.

Through its authenticity, the quality of its casting and the exceptional richness of its decoration, this clock represents a remarkable interpretation of the Rocaille taste under Napoleon III. Its fully three-dimensional architecture, admirable from every angle, reveals a profusion of sculpted details and a genuine mastery of decorative composition. Far more than a simple timepiece, it is an imposing work of art, bringing together the poetry of the musical figure, the splendour of gilt bronze and the elegant exuberance of the Louis XV style. A decorative piece of great character, particularly captivating for its commanding presence, rare quality of execution and spectacular ornamental power.

Original movement, entirely unaltered. Striking the hours and half-hours on an antique bell, with a clear and authentic tone.