Cartel Clock Louis XV Japy 1878

This elegant Louis XV-style cartel clock, crafted during the Second Empire under Napoleon III and dated 1878, captivates with the sumptuousness of its decoration, the harmony of its sweeping curves and the refined contrast of its materials. Its wooden case, veneered in precious tortoiseshell and enhanced with a hand-applied French polish that reveals the depth of its rich hues and warm lustre, is magnificently adorned with finely chased and gilded bronze mounts. The movement, stamped “Japy et Cie”, bears the mark of a major French clockmaking manufactory listed in Tardy’s dictionary of clockmakers. The ensemble exemplifies the particularly sophisticated 19th-century taste for ornamental clocks, combining decorative richness, architectural elegance and horological excellence.

Of imposing presence, the case adopts a sinuous silhouette with generous curves, characteristic of the rocaille vocabulary of the Louis XV style. The summit, enlivened by a spectacular bouquet of flowers and foliage in gilt bronze, crowns an architectural structure articulated with carefully designed projections. The façade is adorned with a broad sculpted pediment featuring scrolls, acanthus leaves and rocaille motifs, framing a circular white enamel dial with Roman numerals for the hours, Arabic minute markings and finely crafted hands. The dial is signed “E. Vauquelin, E. Dalibon & Cie”. On either side, graceful gilt-bronze mounts follow the contours of the case, while a finely chased frieze elegantly emphasises the upper section. At the bottom, a remarkable arrangement of foliage and fruit flourishes at the centre, accompanied by scrolling ornament, volutes and curved feet in gilt bronze. The combination of these sculptural ornaments with the deep reddish-brown tones of the tortoiseshell creates a richly layered decorative effect, in which every detail contributes to the harmony of the whole.

With its elegant cartel silhouette, the quality of its chasing, the preciousness of its tortoiseshell veneer and the warmth of its gilding, this clock is a remarkable testament to French decorative arts under the Second Empire. It combines 18th-century inspiration with the 19th-century passion for prestigious objects in a composition that is both sculptural and refined. Its commanding decorative presence makes it an exceptional centrepiece for a mantelpiece, console table or distinguished interior. The “Japy et Cie” stamp, together with the signature on the dial, further enhances the historical and horological interest of the ensemble. An exquisite collector’s clock of timeless appeal, intended for enthusiasts of antique horology and exceptional furnishings.

Original movement, unmodified. Strikes the hours and half-hours on an antique bell, producing a clear and authentic sound.