Clock · Mantel clock and garniture
This garniture, manufactured in France circa 1880 by Achille Brocot, consists of a mantel clock and two matching dummy candlesticks. The ensemble is constructed from ormolu and features Japonisme-style aesthetic design elements. Achille Brocot is documented as the manufacturer, known for his patents regarding clock mechanisms and the invention of the 'Brocot Suspension', which allows for pendulum regulation via a key inserted directly into the clock dial. The physical dimensions of the garniture are recorded as 650 mm in width, 154 mm in depth, and 440 mm in height.
Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.
The garniture is an assembly of a mantel clock and two matching dummy candlesticks produced in an ormolu finish.
The candlesticks feature sculptural handles fashioned to resemble elephant heads, providing a contrast to the metalwork on the central clock unit.
The manufacturer, Achille Brocot, is noted for technical contributions to horological mechanics, specifically concerning escapements and pendulum regulation. A primary technical feature mentioned in association with his work is the 'Brocot Suspension', which allows the user to regulate the timekeeping of the clock by adjusting the length of the pendulum suspension spring.
The adjustment of this mechanism is facilitated by using a key inserted through the dial. Furthermore, Brocot is recognized for his development of the 'jeweled deadbeat escapement', occasionally referred to as a visible escapement, due to the practice of mounting it prominently within the center of the dial.
The object is held in the collection of Museums Victoria under the accession number HT 22697. The manufacturing attribution to Achille Brocot and the date of circa 1880 are maintained in the museum records. The entry is classified as a garniture, and its physical dimensions are established as 650 mm wide, 154 mm deep, and 440 mm high.
While the source provides these details, it notes that wider type attribution and the accuracy of the historical provenance remain subject to ongoing research. No specific catalogue numbers are currently recorded for this specimen, and the primary identifying information rests on the museum's internal documentation.
| Field | Source-reported value | Source quotation |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | Achille Brocot | “manufactured by Achille Brocot” |
| Date | circa 1880 | “circa 1880” |
| Country | France | “manufactured by Achille Brocot in France” |
| Materials | Ormolu | “Ormolu garniture” |
| Components | Mantel clock and two candlesticks | “The garniture comprises a mantel clock and two dummy candlesticks.” |
| Dimensions | 650 mm W x 154 mm D x 440 mm H | “650 mm (Width), 154 mm (Depth), 440 mm (Height)” |
| Accession Number | HT 22697 | “HT 22697” |
Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.
Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record fd3a1f65f5
Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.
