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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Mantle clock

French Empire Gilt Bronze and Marble Mantle Clock

Partially verified

This mantle clock is identified in the provided documentation as a French Empire gilt bronze mantle clock. The object stands 19.75 inches tall and features a white marble body, which is supported by ornate scroll-shaped feet. The marble base is further embellished with gilt bronze appliqués. Positioned atop the rectangular marble plinth is a cast gilt bronze figure representing the personification of poetry. This figure sits upon a rock-like formation that contains the clock movement and an enameled dial featuring Roman numerals. The auction documentation states that the object includes its original key and pendulum.

Front view of the gilt bronze mantle clock featuring a seated female figure atop a white marble base with an enameled dial.
Front view of the gilt bronze mantle clock featuring a seated female figure atop a white marble base with an enameled dial. — Jackson's International (via Invaluable). Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.invaluable.com
Category
Clock · Mantle clock
Maker / attribution
Not established
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
936
Source-reported date
Not established
Source-reported place
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 and Aesthetic Design

The mantle clock is constructed from white marble formed into a rectangular plinth base, elevated by ornamental scroll feet. The surface of the marble is decorated with gilt bronze mounts, specifically a central horizontal plaque on the front panel and framing elements at the base.

Surmounting the marble base is a sculptural assembly in gilt bronze. It depicts a female figure, identified by the source as the personification of poetry, seated upon a rocky outcrop. She holds a tablet or book in her left hand. The dial is integrated into the side of the rocky support.

Evidence for this section
  • “white marble body overlaid with gilt bronze ornamentation”
  • “finely sculpted figure being the personification of poetry”
  • “On ornate scroll feet”

Dial and Timekeeping

The clock features an enameled dial set directly into the bronze rocky sculpture. The dial is marked with black Roman numerals for the hours. The movement is accessed from the rear, where a circular opening reveals the back plate and a bell for striking.

The auction source confirms that the object is sold with its original key and pendulum, which are necessary for the operation of the mechanical movement housed within the bronze casing.

Evidence for this section
  • “incorporating an enameled dial with Roman Numerals”
  • “With original key and pendulum”

Documentation and Attribution

The object is catalogued by the auction house as a French Empire style piece. The documentation provides physical dimensions and notes that the listing is for the clock itself, including its specific components and ornamentation.

No specific manufacturer, clockmaker, or precise date of creation is provided in the source material beyond the generic designation of the style. The condition is not described in detail by the source, which notes that a condition report is available upon request.

Evidence for this section
  • “A FRENCH EMPIRE GILT BRONZE MANTLE CLOCK”
  • “a condition report is available by request”

Open research questions

  • What is the name of the movement manufacturer or associated clockmaker?
  • Are there any foundry marks or signatures on the bronze casting?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for French Empire Gilt Bronze and Marble Mantle Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Lot Number936“Lot 936”
MaterialGilt bronze and white marble“white marble body overlaid with gilt bronze ornamentation”
Height19.75 inches (50 cm)“height 19.75 inches (50 cm)”
Included componentsKey and pendulum“With original key and pendulum”
SubjectPersonification of poetry“finely sculpted figure being the personification of poetry”

Visible details

  • Cast gilt bronze figure of a seated woman holding a tablet
  • White marble rectangular base with decorative gilt bronze mounts
  • Enameled dial with black Roman numerals
  • Ornate scroll-shaped feet at the corners of the base

Research qualifications

  • The exact period of manufacture is not explicitly dated in the source
  • The source does not specify the materials used for the internal movement mechanism

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

Consulted source

A FRENCH EMPIRE GILT BRONZE MANTLE CLOCK

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record b899790a79

Terms in this record

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

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