Skip to content
The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Mantel clock

French Ormolu Cherub Figural Mantel Clock

Partially verified

This mantel clock is an 8-day French bell-striking timepiece, attributed to a date of circa 1860. The clock features a gilt ormolu case decorated with a central cherub figure holding a torch, positioned atop a base adorned with hand-painted porcelain panels depicting cherubs. The circular enamel dial displays Roman numerals for the hours and Arabic numerals for the minutes, signed by the retailer. The clock rests upon an original gilt stand with a blue silk-topped surface. The movement is reported as an 8-day mechanism with a bell strike function. The total dimensions of the object including the stand are 35cm in height, 35cm in width, and 15cm in depth. The object is accompanied by a winding key and pendulum.

Front view of the French ormolu mantel clock with cherub figure and hand-painted panels, displayed on its silk-topped stand.
Front view of the French ormolu mantel clock with cherub figure and hand-painted panels, displayed on its silk-topped stand. — Vintage Clocks UK. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
vintageclocks.uk
Category
Clock · Mantel clock
Maker / attribution
Beylard
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
ca 1860
Source-reported place
France
Source-reported serial
2307

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 Decorative Elements

The mantel clock is constructed with a gilt ormolu case, characterized by elaborate scroll and floral decorative elements. A prominent bronze figure of a cherub is positioned at the top of the clock, holding a torch aloft. The lower section of the case incorporates rectangular panels decorated with hand-painted imagery of cherubs, which the listing identifies as Sevres-style work.

The entire assembly is set upon a matching original gilt stand, which features a blue fabric covering on its upper surface. The ormolu displays ornamental detailing around the dial and across the base, maintaining what the source describes as the original finish. The clock's total footprint is defined by its 35cm width and 15cm depth, with an overall height of 35cm including the stand.

Evidence for this section
  • “Original gilt ormolu case”
  • “Rare hand painted pink sevres panels”
  • “Original gilt and silk topped stand”

Movement and Dial

The timepiece is equipped with an 8-day French movement configured for bell striking. The movement is housed within the circular central drum of the case, behind a circular enamel dial. The dial features Roman numerals at the hour intervals and Arabic numerals for the minute track, and includes a signature from the retailer.

The mechanical system is reported to be in working order and produces an audible strike. The set includes the necessary winding key and a pendulum for timekeeping regulation. The source notes that the movement is original to the clock.

Evidence for this section
  • “8 Day French bell striking movement”
  • “Super clean enamel dial signed by the retailer”
  • “The movement is original, a french 8 day bell striking movement with a wonderful tick.”

Condition and Attribution

The object is offered as an antique French mantel clock with an estimated date of circa 1860. The source reports that the piece is in very good condition considering its age, noting that the ormolu finish remains original to the item.

Prospective assessments should note the presence of slight wear consistent with the age of the materials. The auction description reports that the object is in working order and retains its original presentation components including the stand.

Evidence for this section
  • “Exquisite Antique French Ormolu Cherub Figural Mantel sevres clock – ca 1860”
  • “Very good condition for age, showing slight signs”
  • “Original finish”

Open research questions

  • Verification of the retailer signature on the dial
  • Examination of the porcelain panels for specific factory marks

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for French Ormolu Cherub Figural Mantel Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Movement type8-day bell striking movement“8 Day French bell striking movement”
Dimensions35cm x 35cm x 15cm“Measures on stand 35cm high by 35cm wide & 15cm deep”
AccessoriesKey and pendulum included“Comes with key and pendulum”
StandGilt and silk topped“Original gilt and silk topped stand”

Visible details

  • Cherub figure holding a torch atop the clock case
  • Hand-painted panels showing cherubs on the base
  • Enamel dial with retailer signature
  • Gilt ormolu finish throughout the case

Research qualifications

  • The source attributes the painting to 'sevres' without providing authentication
  • The age condition is described as 'very good' but requires physical inspection for specific wear

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

Consulted source

Exquisite Antique French Ormolu Cherub Figural Mantel sevres clock – ca 1860

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record d92e14d1a2

Terms in this record

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

Other mantel clock records