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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Mantel clock

Victorian Neoclassical Slate Mantel Clock

Partially verified

This Victorian-era mantel clock features an architectural design constructed from dark slate, measuring 19 inches in height, 18 inches in width, and 6 inches in depth. The object possesses a substantial weight of 47.5 pounds. The clock housing rests on a shaped base and incorporates decorative gilt-metal mounts throughout its structure. At the apex, a sculptural allegorical figure stands holding a staff. The central portion of the housing contains a white dial with Arabic numerals and an open escapement mechanism. Flanking this central dial, two standing figures dressed in armor are positioned between fluted Corinthian columns. The timepiece operates via a time-and-strike movement, which is signed by the maker AD Mougin.

A Victorian-era architectural mantel clock in slate with gilt-metal allegorical and armored figures.
A Victorian-era architectural mantel clock in slate with gilt-metal allegorical and armored figures. — Austin Auction Gallery. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
orbiscollectibles.com
Category
Clock · Mantel clock
Maker / attribution
AD Mougin
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
late 19th c.
Source-reported place
Not established

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 Features

The clock is constructed from a dark slate, which forms the primary architectural housing for the mechanism. The case design is characterized by its pronounced, heavy structure, set upon a shaped base that supports the internal movement.

Ornamentation is provided by several gilt-metal elements, including decorative mounts that contrast with the slate finish. The top of the clock is surmounted by a sculptural figure representing an allegorical personage. Additional figures depicting individuals in armor stand on either side of the dial, framed by fluted Corinthian columns.

Evidence for this section
  • “constructed from dark slate and ornamented with gilt-metal mounts”
  • “surmounted by a sculptural figure representing an allegorical personage holding a staff”
  • “Flanking the clock face are two standing figures in armor, framed by fluted Corinthian columns”

Dial and Timekeeping

The central portion of the slate case houses a white dial. This face is marked with Arabic hour numerals for time indication.

The movement is of the time-and-strike variety, providing both the display of time and a striking function. Visible on the dial is an open escapement mechanism, which allows for viewing the oscillation of the balance wheel.

Evidence for this section
  • “houses a white dial marked with Arabic hour numerals and an open escapement mechanism”
  • “timepiece is driven by a time-and-strike movement”

Signatures and Specifications

The internal time-and-strike movement is signed by the maker AD Mougin. This serves as the primary identifier for the mechanical component of the object.

The clock is noted for its physical dimensions and significant mass. It measures 19 inches in height, 18 inches in width, and 6 inches in depth, with a weight of 47.5 pounds.

Evidence for this section
  • “movement, which is signed by the maker AD Mougin”
  • “measures approximately 19 inches in height, 18 inches in width, and 6 inches in depth, with a substantial weight of 47.5 pounds”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific relationship between the AD Mougin movement and the assembly of the slate case?
  • Are there specific foundry marks on the gilt-metal mounts that would identify the artisan responsible for the decorative figures?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Victorian Neoclassical Slate Mantel Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerAD Mougin“time-and-strike movement, which is signed by the maker AD Mougin”
Height19 inches“measures approximately 19 inches in height”
Weight47.5 pounds“substantial weight of 47.5 pounds”
Materialsslate and gilt-metal“constructed from dark slate and ornamented with gilt-metal mounts”
Movementtime-and-strike“timepiece is driven by a time-and-strike movement”
Escapementopen“open escapement mechanism”
Periodlate 19th c.“late 19th c.”

Visible details

  • The dial features an open escapement mechanism at the center.
  • The clock is topped with a female allegorical figure holding a staff.
  • Two figures in armor are positioned on either side of the dial.
  • The case incorporates fluted columns with Corinthian capitals.

Research qualifications

  • The dating to the late 19th century is stated as an approximate period rather than a precise manufacture date.
  • The attribution of the maker AD Mougin is linked to the movement, but the provenance of the overall assembly is not detailed.

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

Consulted source

Victorian Neoclassical slate mantel clock with gilt-metal mounts

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 0d19832a97

Terms in this record

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

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