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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Mantel clock

French Ormolu Mantel Clock with Urn Finial

Partially verified

and a large urn finial. Measuring 60cm high by 32cm wide and 16cm deep, the timepiece features a circular dial casing with a convex glass door. The movement is described as an 8-day striking mechanism, which the source indicates is signed, though no photographic evidence of the signature is provided. The exterior displays a stepped plinth base with carved decoration, including c-scrolls and floral swags, finished with an aged natural patina. The upper portion of the case is surmounted by a central urn with a blue element. The clock is reported to be in good condition, with the auction description noting slight signs of age and wear on the front foot.

Rear view of the mantel clock showing the movement housing, strike bell, and open bezel.
Rear view of the mantel clock showing the movement housing, strike bell, and open 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
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1880
Source-reported place
France
Source-reported serial
1119

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 features a substantial bronze ormolu case, described by the source as possessing an original natural patina acquired over time. The main housing is circular, featuring a distinct diaper-work pattern on the exterior sides. The clock rests upon a stepped plinth base, which is ornamented with carved c-scrolls and floral swags.

The design is topped by a large urn finial, which includes a blue-toned insert or section. The front of the circular housing is fitted with a hinged bezel holding a convex glass lens, providing access to the interior components from the rear.

Evidence for this section
  • “Bronze ormolu case”
  • “Original natural patina from age”
  • “stepped plinth case carved decoration of c & s scrolling decoration and floral swags”
  • “wonderful ormolu bezel with convex glass”

Movement and Function

The object is powered by a French 8-day striking movement. The mechanism is accessed from the rear of the circular housing, which features a door that swings open to reveal the strike bell and the internal structure.

The source states the movement is signed, although the photographs do not clearly depict a maker's mark or specific signature on the visible portions of the plate or bell.

Evidence for this section
  • “French 8-day striking movement”
  • “Signed movement”

Condition and Dimensions

The clock is stated to be in good condition for its age, with the vendor explicitly identifying signs of wear located on the front foot. The physical size is defined as 60cm in height, 32cm in width, and 16cm in depth,

The dial is described as a clean enamel surface featuring Roman numerals, although this component is not visible in the provided photographic set.

Evidence for this section
  • “Good condition for age, showing slight signs front foot a or age”
  • “Clean enamel dial with Roman”
  • “Measures 60cm high by 32cm wide & 16cm deep”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific maker associated with the signed movement?
  • What is the material composition of the blue section of the top urn?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for French Ormolu Mantel Clock with Urn Finial
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MaterialBronze ormolu“Bronze ormolu case”
Movement8-day striking“French 8-day striking movement”
Dimensions60cm H x 32cm W x 16cm D“Measures 60cm high by 32cm wide & 16cm deep”
Datecirca 1880“Circa 1880”
Design elementsScrolling floral, c and s scrolls, floral swags“stepped plinth case carved decoration of c & s scrolling decoration and floral swags”
ConditionSigns of age on front foot“showing slight signs front foot a or age”

Visible details

  • Blue glazed or cobalt element on top urn
  • Convex glass covering the dial area
  • Movement strike bell visible from the rear access door
  • Engraved-style diaper pattern on the sides of the circular movement housing

Research qualifications

  • The internal clock dial and hands are not visible in the provided images
  • The signature mentioned in the text is not shown in the photographs

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

Consulted source

Fine French Ormolu Mantel Clock Scrolling Floral Case Striking 8-Day Mantle Clock

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 18cb0026a0

Terms in this record

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

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