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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Mantel clock

French Boulle Inlaid Mantel Clock

Partially verified

This is an eight-day French mantel clock featuring Boulle marquetry, dated by the source to approximately 1855. The clock is constructed with a red and ormolu inlaid case, decorated across the front, back, and sides. It is topped with a floral basket finial and rests upon carved bracket feet. The dial consists of enamel sections with black Arabic and Roman numerals, operated by black cross-style steel hands. The clock utilizes a French bell-striking movement and includes a bevel glass brass bezel. Measuring 32 cm in height, 16.5 cm in width, and 10 cm in depth, the clock is described as having been recently serviced. It is sold with its pendulum and winding key, and the auction description reports it is in working order.

Front view of the French Boulle mantel clock showing the enamel dial and floral finial.
Front view of the French Boulle mantel clock showing the enamel dial and floral finial. — Vintage Clocks UK. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
vintageclocks.uk
Category
Clock · Mantel clock
Maker / attribution
Not established
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1855
Source-reported place
France
Source-reported serial
JN100

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 and Aesthetics

The clock is housed in a case finished with Boulle marquetry, featuring red and brass inlay across the front, back, and sides. The design incorporates ormolu mounts that the auction description reports maintain a deep golden luster and sharp chasing.

The structure is supported by carved bracket feet and surmounted by a floral basket finial. The dial is composed of enamel sections marked with black Arabic and Roman numerals, framed by a bevel glass brass bezel.

Evidence for this section
  • “Fine boulle case”
  • “Boulle inlaid decoration to the sides and the front and back”
  • “Floral basket finial top”
  • “Enamel section dial”

Movement and Function

The timekeeping is powered by a French bell-striking movement. The clock operates on an eight-day duration and is front-winding.

The auction description reports that the movement has been recently serviced and is currently in working order, striking in synchronization. The piece is provided with its original or correct pendulum and winding key.

Evidence for this section
  • “8-Day Mantle Clock”
  • “French bell striking movement”
  • “Working order – recently fully serviced”
  • “Complete with its original/correct pendulum and winding key.”

Condition

The auction description reports the clock is in excellent antique condition. The marquetry is described as well-preserved, with the brass elements noted as flat and secure against the case.

Furthermore, the auction description reports that the enamel dial cartouches are free of chips or hairlines, and the ormolu mounts retain their original finish and luster.

Evidence for this section
  • “In excellent antique condition.”
  • “The highly delicate Boulle marquetry is remarkably well-preserved”
  • “The enamel dial cartouches are flawless, completely free of chips or hairlines.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific material used for the red background of the marquetry (tortoiseshell or imitation)?
  • Does the movement bear any maker's stamp or mark under the back plate to identify the manufacturer?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for French Boulle Inlaid Mantel Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerFrench“Good Quality French Mantel Clock”
Datecirca 1855“This clock dates to around 1855”
Dimensions32cm high, 16.5cm wide, 10cm depth“Measures 32cm high by 16.5cm wide and 10cm depth.”
SKUJN100“SKU: JN100”
MovementFrench bell striking“French bell striking movement”
InlayBoulle (brass and red)“Boulle Inlaid Mantel Clock – Red and Ormolu inlay”

Visible details

  • Floral basket finial top
  • Enamel section dial with black Arabic and Roman numerals
  • Carved bracket feet
  • Brass and red material marquetry inlay

Research qualifications

  • Maker is not identified
  • The exact material of the red inlay component is not verified beyond the term Boulle

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

Consulted source

Quality Boulle Inlaid Mantel Clock – Red and Ormolu inlay – 8-Day Mantle Clock – Circa 1855

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record ba15c73aec

Terms in this record

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

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