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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Figural mantel clock

A French Bronze and Slate Figural Mantel Clock

Partially verified

This French figural mantel clock dates to the late 19th century and features a bronze and slate case measuring 26 inches in height, 21 1/2 inches in width, and 8 1/2 inches in depth. The white dial is signed Herbillon, Paris, displaying Roman numerals, gilt hands, and twin winding apertures. Surmounting the case is a patinated bronze classical female figure holding a cornucopia, seated beside the circular movement housing. The black slate base is ornamented with gilt-bronze mounts, including floral swags, scrolling acanthus feet, and a central cartouche inset with two figures.

Front three-quarter view of the French bronze and slate figural mantel clock with classical female figure
Front three-quarter view of the French bronze and slate figural mantel clock with classical female figure — Freeman's. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
freemansauction.com
Category
Clock · Figural mantel clock
Maker / attribution
Herbillon
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
142
Source-reported date
Late 19th Century
Country
France

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case Composition and Decorative Elements

The clock case is constructed from black slate and bronze. It is surmounted by a patinated bronze figure of a classical draped woman wearing a laurel wreath and holding a cornucopia.

The black slate base is ornamented with gilt-bronze mounts, including floral garlands, scrolling feet, and a central rocaille cartouche depicting two putti.

Evidence for this section
  • “A French Bronze and Slate Figural Mantel Clock”
  • “Patinated bronze figure of a classical draped woman wearing a laurel wreath and holding a cornucopia atop the clock structure.”
  • “Black slate plinth adorned with gilt-bronze mounts, including floral garlands, scrolling feet, and a central rocaille cartouche depicting two putti.”

Dial and Timekeeping Components

The circular white dial is signed 'Herbillon, Paris' and displays Roman numerals. It is fitted with gilt pierced hands and twin winding apertures.

The dial is surrounded by a beaded and patterned gilt-bronze bezel.

Evidence for this section
  • “Dial Signed Herbillon, Paris”
  • “Circular white dial with Roman numerals, gilt pierced hands, and twin winding apertures.”
  • “Beaded and patterned gilt-bronze bezel surrounding the dial.”

Reported Condition

The source states the movement requires repair. It does not tick, though it strikes when the hands are moved manually. One winding pin does not wind and may be overwound.

The item is incomplete, as it is supplied without a key or pendulum.

Evidence for this section
  • “The clock movement needs repair.”
  • “The clock does not tick but it does strike when the hands are advanced manually.”
  • “One of the winding pins does not wind and may be overwound.”
  • “There is no key or pendulum included.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific movement caliber and manufacturer mark typically associated with Herbillon, Paris, in clocks of this period?
  • Does internal inspection reveal any maker stamps on the bronze or slate elements that identify the bronze caster?
  • Is the current state of the winding pin indicative of a damaged mainspring or a broken gear train?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for A French Bronze and Slate Figural Mantel Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Dial SignatureHerbillon, Paris“Dial Signed Herbillon, Paris”
PeriodLate 19th Century“Late 19th Century”
DimensionsHeight 26 x width 21 1/2 x depth 8 1/2 inches“Height 26 x width 21 1/2 x depth 8 1/2 inches.”
MaterialsBronze and Slate“A French Bronze and Slate Figural Mantel Clock”
Attributed PeriodLate 19th Century“Late 19th Century”
Dimensions26 inches H x 21 1/2 inches W x 8 1/2 inches D“Height 26 x width 21 1/2 x depth 8 1/2 inches.”

Visible details

  • Patinated bronze figure of a classical draped woman wearing a laurel wreath and holding a cornucopia atop the clock structure.
  • Circular white dial with Roman numerals, gilt pierced hands, and twin winding apertures.
  • Beaded and patterned gilt-bronze bezel surrounding the dial.
  • Black slate plinth adorned with gilt-bronze mounts, including floral garlands, scrolling feet, and a central rocaille cartouche depicting two putti.

Research qualifications

  • The source notes that the movement requires repair, one winding pin does not wind and may be overwound, the clock strikes manually but does not tick, and neither key nor pendulum is included.
  • The movement caliber, internal marks, and rear construction are not shown or described.

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

A French Bronze and Slate Figural Mantel Clock | Freeman's

Reviewed 2026-10-22 · Record 91ab457c9f

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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