18th Century Clock By Pierre Rive Colmar

Royal Antique is proud to present this exceptional ormolu mantel clock, grandly titled "L’Étude et La Philosophie" (Study and Philosophy). This clock was an enormously successful and popular model in the late 18th Century, deriving from a drawing in a catalogue produced by François Rémond, circa 1785. Its allegorical figures were designed and supplied to the Sèvres factory for reproduction in biscuit porcelain by the renowned sculptor Simon-Louis Boizot.

Design and Allegory:

• Central Composition: The clock is surmounted by a bronzed eagle with outstretched wings, poised above the circular drum case. This central timepiece is flanked by two exquisitely crafted patinated bronze figures, personifying Philosophy (contemplating a globe) and Study (reading a book), embodying the intellectual spirit of the Enlightenment.

• Case and Base: The circular drum case rests on an elegant plinth, the front of which is adorned with a finely chased ormolu panel depicting playful cherubs engaged in various activities, such as writing and reading, against a backdrop of classical architecture and nature. The entire assembly stands on a luxurious green marble base, further embellished with intricate gilt bronze mounts featuring classical motifs and supports on six circular gadrooned feet.

Horological Features:

• Enamel Dial: The clock features a circular white-enameled dial with clear Roman numerals for the hours and Arabic quarter marks. It is equipped with finely pierced gilt hands. The dial is signed "Piezze Rive à Colmar," identifying its esteemed maker.

• Movement: The movement strikes the hours, half-hours, and quarter-hours (indicated as "15 minutes" in the source).

Historical Significance and Provenance:

This model's widespread popularity in the late 18th century is underscored by its presence in prestigious collections worldwide. Three virtually identical clocks are held in the Royal Collection at Buckingham Palace. A fourth resides at Versailles (H. Ottomeyer, P. Pröschel et al., Vergoldete Bronzen, Munich, 1986, vol. I, p. 295, figs. 4.17.5 and 4.17.6.). Other clocks of this celebrated model are found in the Swedish Royal Collection and in the Spanish Royal Collection.

This magnificent timepiece is not merely a functional object but a profound statement piece, embodying the intellectual and artistic ideals of the Louis XVI period. It represents a significant element of French history and culture, making it an exceptional acquisition for any distinguished collection or an interior seeking unparalleled neoclassical grandeur.