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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Mantel clock

French mantel clock

Partially verified

It features an eight-day duration movement that strikes a bell on the hour and half-hour. The case is constructed with decorative carvings and is identified in the source as having a design influenced by the Taj Mahal. The dial displays Roman numerals and incorporates central ornamentation, shielded by a brass bezel with bevelled glass. Gilt metal accents are present on the front of the case and the upper canopy structure. Dimensions are provided as 44cm high, 18cm wide, and 18cm deep. The object is catalogued under SKU 0925.

Frontal view of the French mantel clock showing the carved case, dial with Roman numerals, and brass bezel.
Frontal view of the French mantel clock showing the carved case, dial with Roman numerals, and brass bezel. — 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
0925
Catalogue / lot identifier
0925
Source-reported date
circa 1860
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 Dial

The clock is housed in a wooden case with a dark finish, decorated with gilt metal appliques at the corners and base. The upper section of the case features a curved, canopy-like structure with carved detailing that is described as having an influence from the Taj Mahal. A central finial sits atop the canopy.

The circular dial is finished with black Roman numerals. It features a decorative engraved center and is mounted within a square plate decorated with gilt metal corner spandrels. A brass bezel with bevelled glass serves to protect the dial face from external damage.

Evidence for this section
  • “Sought after designed intricate carved case”
  • “Rare design influenced by the Taj Mahal”
  • “Protected via a bevelled glass brass bezel”
  • “Super clean dial”

Movement and Striking

The internal mechanism is a French-made, eight-day movement. It is designed to track time and produce an audible strike on the hour and half-hour. The strike is emitted through a bell located within the case.

The movement is described as original to the clock and is reported to be in working order. The seller notes that the bell produces a clean sound during the striking sequence.

Evidence for this section
  • “French clock movement”
  • “Striking a bell on the half and the hour”
  • “The movement is original with a wonderful tick striking a clean sounding bell”

Condition

The auction description reports that the clock is in very good condition considering its age. It retains its original finish on the exterior woodwork.

There are slight signs of wear noted, consistent with the age of the object. The seller specifies that the clock is fully functional and currently in working order.

Evidence for this section
  • “Very good condition for age, showing slight signs”
  • “The case has its original finish”
  • “Working order”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific horological maker of this movement?
  • What is the historical context of 'Taj Mahal' style cases in French nineteenth-century clockmaking?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for French mantel clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Movement duration8-Day“8 Day carved Taj Mahal French clock”
Dimensions44cm x 18cm x 18cm“Measures 44cm high by 18cm wide & 18cm deep”
Striking mechanismBell strike on hour and half-hour“Striking a bell on the half and the hour”
Case finishOriginal“The case has its original finish”
Datecirca 1860“French Antique Mantel Clock – 8-Day Taj Mahal Carved Mantle Clock C1860”
SKU0925“SKU: 0925”

Visible details

  • Case features gilt metal ornaments and architectural detailing at the crown
  • Dial marked with Roman numerals and central floral-style engraving
  • Brass bezel with bevelled glass protects the dial
  • Feet are of a bun-style design

Research qualifications

  • The specific 'Taj Mahal' influence on the case design is provided by the seller and is not technically verified
  • The attribution of the manufacture to France is stated by the seller

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

Consulted source

French Antique Mantel Clock – 8-Day Taj Mahal Carved Mantle Clock C1860

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record ac42b2af52

Terms in this record

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

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