Mantle Clock, Marie Antoinette Style, Gilt Bronze, Sevres Style

Description

Marie Antoinette Style Gilt Bronze and Sevres Style Mantel Clock, After a V&A Museum Model

An elegant and highly decorative Marie Antoinette-style mantel clock, inspired by an original design held in the Victoria and Albert Museum, exemplifies the refined taste and opulence of late 18th-century French decorative arts.

The clock is beautifully crafted in the lyre form, richly adorned with gilt bronze mounts and deep cobalt blue Sevres-style panels. At the crest sits a finely modelled mask of Apollo, radiating sunburst rays, symbolising light, harmony and the arts. The body is further embellished with classical motifs including laurel garlands, musical elements, and scrolling foliage, all executed with exceptional detail and symmetry.

The circular enamel dial is delicately decorated with a floral chapter ring and Roman numerals, framed by a beaded gilt bezel. The elegant hands and twin winding apertures reflect its traditional mechanical movement. The clock stands on a shaped base with matching blue ground and ormolu mounts, completing the balanced and graceful composition. Hand-painted details with 22-carat gold accents add an air of regal luxury, while over sixty sparkling Austrian crystals are meticulously set by hand, offering a delicate touch of brilliance.

This type of clock, often referred to as a “Marie Antoinette” lyre clock, became highly popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as faithful reproductions of important French neoclassical designs, particularly those associated with the court of Louis XVI.

The piece is presented in good condition, with minor wear consistent with age. The gilding remains bright and attractive, and the enamel-style panels retain their rich colour. The movement is present with key included, though it may benefit from servicing to ensure optimal performance.

A striking decorative timepiece, combining classical elegance with historical inspiration, ideal for collectors of French-style clocks or for adding a touch of refined sophistication to an interior setting.

Size 39 x 17 cm

Most objects sold in our gallery are antiques, vintage or used; therefore, they will show signs of being antique, vintage or used. There may be signs of scratches, discolouration, chips, cracks, wear and tear, unknown manufacturers and/or patterns. Please see the photographs as they form part of the description.  Overseas buyers in some countries may be required to pay any import duties, taxes, or fees. All items are meticulously wrapped and prepared for both UK and international shipping. Overseas buyers, please get in touch for courier charges.

Clocks, Mantle clocks, music boxes, and other similar items may require service after transportation and are sold as decorative pieces. Please note, whilst clocks currently work, during transport, all clocks are moved around a lot, and therefore, they may require setting up upon receiving them, as well as the possibility of requiring professional assistance or service, as they can get ‘stuck’. There is no guarantee that the clock will work smoothly after it has been transported. Leans Gallery does not guarantee any barometers, clocks, or music boxes to be in working order.