Lyre Mantel Clock Ormolu Gilt Patinated Bronze

The mantel clock is designed in a distinctly Neoclassical manner from superbly wrought gilt and patinated bronze. The form of the lyre, perhaps the musical instrument most closely associated with classical antiquity, is the inspiration for the shape of the clock. The clock features a pierced ormolu circular dial, with Arabic numeral hour indices on individual enamel cartouches, set into the soundboard of a lyre; the twin lyre branches spring upwards from the case, the two branches culminating in scrolled swan's head terminals, the swans' bills grasping a floral garland that brushes against the taut ormolu lyre strings. Between the swan's head finials is a classical mask of a bearded man, sunbursts radiating from his head. The lyre-form case is supported by a square marble plinth-form base, which is mounted with assemblages of classicising motifs. The bronze throughout is superbly cast and finished with moulded detailing, such as the acanthus leaves that grasp the lyre branches. 8-day spring-driven movement with anchor escapement and pendulum with silk suspension, half-hourly striking on a bell. The hands are made in Breguet style.