Louis XVI-era Marble And Gilded Bronze Clock By Jean-nicolas Schmit, After Delafosse

A white marble and gilded bronze clock with a matte and glossy mercury finish and a beautiful neoclassical “antique vase” design, resting on lion’s paws. It is adorned with hanging garlands,beading,pine cones,leaves, and bunches of grapes. A model from the early Louis XVI period, dating to the late 1770s or very early 1780s, based on designs by Jean-Charles Delafosse. Original string-wound movement, which strikes the hours and half-hours; the enameled dial bears the signature of Jean Nicolas Schmit. 

Jean-Nicolas Schmit is considered one of the most important Parisian watchmakers of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. After becoming a master watchmaker in August 1781, he established his workshop on Rue Béthisy in Paris in 1782, then moved to Rue Coquillère in 1783, and finally to Rue du Coq Saint-Honoré in 1789. He quickly gained a reputation among discerning collectors and was a supplier to the Dihl and Guerhard Manufactory for its porcelain clocks.

A beautiful, elegant, and rare model, small in size, suitable for a bedroom or boudoir.

The clock is in very good condition; it appears to be in working order, although starting it up may require on-site adjustment by a clockmaker. It comes complete with a pendulum and key. Beautiful gilding in both matte and glossy finishes.

Height: 34 cm