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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Mantel clock

French Mantel Clock with Ormolu Mounts

Partially verified

This French mantel clock, dating to approximately 1890, features a case constructed from solid white marble, described by the source as potentially Carrara or statuary marble. The architectural design incorporates a cylindrical, fluted column body set upon a stepped rectangular plinth base, embellished with gilt-brass ormolu mounts including floral decorations, beaded bezels, side handles, and classical-style bracket feet. The white enamel dial is accented with painted floral sprays and black Arabic numerals. The timekeeping mechanism is an 8-day striking movement that chimes on the hour and half-hour. The clock measures 31cm in height, 20cm in width, and 13cm in depth. It retains its original case finish and is reported by the seller to be in working order following a recent service.

Front view of the solid white marble French mantel clock, highlighting the ormolu floral mounts and enamel dial.
Front view of the solid white marble French mantel clock, highlighting the ormolu floral mounts and enamel dial. — 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
Jn66
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1890
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 Construction

The clock is housed in a heavy, substantial case carved from solid white marble, featuring a clean, uniform stone surface. The silhouette consists of an architectural, fluted column body resting on a stepped plinth base, supported by small, classical bracket feet.

Ornate gilt-brass ormolu mounts provide decorative contrast to the marble. These elements include finely chased side handles, a decorative floral mount situated above the dial, and beaded bezels. A carved marble and metal finial surmounts the top of the casing.

Evidence for this section
  • “The clock is housed in a heavy, substantial case carved from high-grade solid white marble”
  • “The architectural silhouette features crisp, stepped molding and is elegantly embellished with finely chased gilt-brass or”
  • “Well carved top finial”

Dial and Timekeeping

The white enamel dial features black Arabic numerals for the hours. The dial is decorated with subtle floral sprays painted directly onto the enamel surface.

The movement is an 8-day striking type, capable of ringing on the hour and the half-hour. The seller reports that the movement has been recently serviced and is currently in working order.

Evidence for this section
  • “Enamel white dial with floral sprays”
  • “Bell striking on the half hour and hour”
  • “Working order – recently fully serviced by me”

Attribution and Provenance

The clock is identified by the source as a French mantel clock produced circa 1890. It is catalogued under the reference number Jn66.

No specific manufacturer's mark is provided in the source material, and the internal movement details are not identified beyond its function as an 8-day striking mechanism.

Evidence for this section
  • “Good Quality French Mantel Clock”
  • “This clock dates to around 1890”
  • “SKU: Jn66”

Open research questions

  • Who is the maker of the 8-day striking movement?
  • Does the base or movement carry any stamped manufacturer marks or serial numbers?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for French Mantel Clock with Ormolu Mounts
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Datecirca 1890“This clock dates to around 1890”
MaterialSolid white marble and ormolu“Solid White Marble & Bronze Ormolu Case”
Dimensions31cm x 20cm x 13cm“Measures 31cm high by 20cm wide and 13cm depth.”
Striking mechanismHalf hour and hour“Bell striking on the half hour and hour”
SKUJn66“SKU: Jn66”
ConditionWorking order“Working order – recently fully serviced by me”

Visible details

  • Enamel dial with floral decorations and black Arabic numerals
  • Ormolu floral mount positioned above the dial
  • Fluted column case design
  • Beaded molding around the base of the central column

Research qualifications

  • The exact type of white marble is not verified
  • The movement's manufacturer is not identified

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

Consulted source

Solid White Marble French Mantel Clock With Ormolu Mounts – 8 Day Striking Mantle clock Circa 1890

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 0c0dc2e528

Terms in this record

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

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