Empire Clock “hebe And Jupiter’s Eagle”

fire-gilded bronze (ormolu) – Empire period, circa 1805–1815

Empire clock in ormolu bronze, dating from the period circa 1805–1815. The clock is topped by a mythological scene depicting Hebe, goddess of youth, feeding Jupiter’s (Zeus’) eagle with ambrosia or nectar, the divine food of the Olympian gods.

The figure of Hebe is depicted in classical drapery, with refined folds and an elegant, natural posture. She leans against the cylindrical drum of the movement. At her side stands an elegant ewer (oenochoe), while on the other side, Jupiter’s eagle is depicted with its beak open and its wings powerfully spread. The sculptural composition combines mythological symbolism with the refined forms of French Neoclassicism.

The decorated polygonal base is adorned with classical neoclassical motifs in fire-gilded bronze. The central panel features a refined bas-relief depicting putti or cherubs at play, accompanied by classical attributes.

Other decorative elements include cornucopias, caduceuses, laurel wreaths, decorative vases, and palmette motifs, lending the piece a distinctly monumental and ceremonial character. The clock rests on beautiful turned and fluted bronze feet, which harmoniously complete the composition.

The clock features a white enamel dial with Roman numerals for the hours and Arabic numerals for the minutes, with quarter-hour markings. At the bottom, the dial bears the signature “à Paris.”