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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Mantel clock

Trumpet Cherub Figural Mantel Clock

Partially verified

This mantel clock features a bronze ormolu case depicting a cherub figure holding a trumpet, seated beside a circular clock housing. The clock is powered by an 8-day movement described as French in origin, which includes a bell-striking mechanism. The dial and lower section of the case are decorated with hand-painted ceramic panels in a shade of turquoise with floral motifs and, on the dial center, a figure scene. The clock stands on a rectangular base with decorative casting. The hands are fashioned from steel. It is accompanied by a key and a pendulum. The seller states that the movement has been serviced and the clock is in working order.

A front-facing view of the figural ormolu mantel clock showing the cherub, the dial, and the decorative base panels.
A front-facing view of the figural ormolu mantel clock showing the cherub, the dial, and the decorative base panels. — 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
JN111
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
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 Aesthetic Features

The clock is constructed with an ormolu bronze case mounted on a rectangular plinth. The primary sculptural element is a figure of a cherub, positioned to one side, holding a trumpet. The case incorporates a series of ceramic panels featuring a turquoise ground, decorated with polychrome floral arrangements and a central figural scene on the clock dial.

The base is cast with decorative motifs. The dial features white enamel cartouches for the hour numerals and a central painted scene. The overall finish is reported to be original to the piece.

Evidence for this section
  • “Original bronze ormolu case”
  • “Sevres Panel dial all hand painted”
  • “Fine bronze ormolu cherub figure”

Movement and Functionality

The timekeeping and striking functions are provided by an 8-day French movement. This mechanism is designed to strike on a bell. The source states that the movement has recently undergone a service, and the clock is currently functional.

The clock requires a key for winding and uses a pendulum to regulate the timekeeping. The hands are steel, shaped in a spade pattern, and are positioned centrally against the painted dial.

Evidence for this section
  • “8 Day French bell striking movement”
  • “Bell strike movement”
  • “Movement has just been serviced”
  • “Working order”

Condition and Dimensions

The dimensions of the object are approximately 29 cm in height, 30 cm in width, and 13 cm in depth. The seller reports that the object is in good condition relative to its age, though they note that it exhibits minor signs of wear consistent with use.

Prospective owners are encouraged to examine the photographic evidence to confirm the aesthetic and structural state of the ormolu and ceramic elements before acquisition.

Evidence for this section
  • “Very good condition for age, showing slight signs or please view the many photos make sure happy.”
  • “Measures on its 29cm high by 30cm wide & 13cm deep”

Open research questions

  • Are there any maker's marks or stamps on the movement plate to confirm the specific workshop of origin?
  • Is there an official Sevres signature or date mark on the reverse of the ceramic panels?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Trumpet Cherub Figural Mantel Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Movement8-day French bell striking movement“8 Day French bell striking movement”
MaterialBronze ormolu“Original bronze ormolu case”
DialHand painted ceramic panels“Sevres Panel dial all hand painted”
Dimensions29cm high by 30cm wide & 13cm deep“Measures on its 29cm high by 30cm wide & 13cm deep”
SKUJN111“SKU: JN111”
AccessoriesKey and pendulum“Comes with key and pendulum”

Visible details

  • Cherub figure holds a trumpet aloft
  • Turquoise floral ceramic plaques on the base
  • Steel spade-pattern hands
  • Roman numeral chapter ring with white enamel cartouches

Research qualifications

  • The claim of 'Sevres' panels is not verified by official markings or provenance records provided
  • The 'original finish' assessment is an auction house report

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

Consulted source

Trumpet Cherub Figural Ormolu French Victorian Sevres 8-day mantel Clock – CA 1860

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 78992bb226

Terms in this record

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

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