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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Mantel clock

French Aesthetic Movement Belgian Black Marble Mantel Clock

Partially verified

This Aesthetic Movement mantel clock dates to circa 1880 according to the source, featuring an architectural Belgian black marble case decorated with polychromed tiles depicting birds, flowers, fish, and a Japanese-style fan. The black marble dial is framed by an embossed brass bezel, bearing gilt Roman numerals and fleur-de-lis hands flanking an illustrated ceramic central disc. The dial is signed for the retailer N. Matson & Co., Chicago. The source states the clock is powered by an eight-day movement made by Ernest Lourdelet of Paris that strikes the quarter hours on two gongs. Turned brass ball finials and feet accent the marble structure.

Frontal view of the Belgian black marble Aesthetic Movement mantel clock with painted tiles and brass finials
Frontal view of the Belgian black marble Aesthetic Movement mantel clock with painted tiles and brass finials — Renaissance Antiques. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.renaissanceantiques.com
Category
Clock · Mantel clock
Maker / attribution
Ernest Lourdelet
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
WIAU 27 P
Source-reported date
circa 1880
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

Architectural Construction

The clock case is crafted in Belgian black marble, incorporating side platforms and vertical fluted columns. The structure is accented with turned brass ball finials and feet.

The case features polychromed tiles depicting flowers, birds, fish, and a Japanese-style fan on a central semi-circular tile.

Evidence for this section
  • “crafted in Belgian black marble”
  • “It has lovely polychromed Japanese tiles depicting flowers, birds, and fish.”
  • “The central semi-circular tile atop the clock depicts a fan.”
  • “brass ball finials and feet complete the presentation.”

Dial and Retail Identity

The clock features an etched marble dial with gilt Roman numerals, an embossed brass ring, and fleur-de-lis hands. A circular tile is positioned at the center of the dial.

The dial is signed by the retailer N. Matson & Co. of Chicago.

Evidence for this section
  • “The etched marble dial features a pretty circular tile at its center, fleur de lis hands, gilt Roman numerals, and embossed brass ring.”
  • “Also, the dial is signed “N. Matson & Co.; Chicago.””

Mechanical Specifications

The clock is powered by an eight-day movement, identified by the source as the work of Ernest Lourdelet of Paris. It is reported to strike the quarter hours on two gongs.

The movement components are not visible in the provided imagery.

Evidence for this section
  • “The movement is by Ernest Lourdelet of Paris.”
  • “rare eight-day time keeping movement that strikes the quarter hours on two gongs.”

Open research questions

  • What is the physical location of the Ernest Lourdelet maker's mark within the clock assembly?
  • Does internal documentation confirm the restoration history of the polychromed tiles?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for French Aesthetic Movement Belgian Black Marble Mantel Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Movement MakerErnest Lourdelet, Paris“The movement is by Ernest Lourdelet of Paris.”
RetailerN. Matson & Co., Chicago“Also, the dial is signed “N. Matson & Co.; Chicago.””
Case MaterialBelgian black marble“crafted in Belgian black marble”
Movement Details8-day movement chiming quarter hours on two gongs“eight-day time keeping movement that strikes the quarter hours on two gongs.”
Dimensions17″H x 18 1/2″W x 6 1/2″D“17″H x 18 1/2″W x 6 1/2″D”
Approximate DatingCirca 1880“Circa 1880”

Visible details

  • Black architectural marble case flanked by side platforms and vertical fluted columns
  • Polychrome ceramic plaques with naturalistic motifs including birds, fish, and a Japanese fan
  • Gilt Roman numeral chapter ring surrounding an illustrated circular dial centre
  • Six turned brass ball finials mounted on the upper crest and posts

Research qualifications

  • Internal movement and rear case views are not shown in the image.
  • Movement maker signature is stated in the description but not visible from the dial front.

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

Consulted source

French Rare Aesthetic Movement Mantel Clock/ - Renaissance Antiques

Reviewed 2026-10-21 · Record d0a89a1cad

Terms in this record

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

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