Boulle Style Mantel Clock 19th Century

Name: Tortoiseshell & Gilt Boulle Clock. A.d. Mougin
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1020707
Price: 795 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectMantel Clocks
Period19th century
StyleFrench Rococo Revival
MaterialTortoiseshell, Ormolu, Enamel, Glass
ColourCrimson and Gold
MotifsAcanthus leaf scrolls, Flame finial, Rococo feet, White enamel dial
SizeH 38 cm (15 in) x W 19 cm (7 in) x D 11 cm (4 in)

This French Rococo Revival mantel clock dates to 1880 and takes the form of an upright architectural case veneered in crimson faux tortoiseshell. It carries elaborate gilt bronze ormolu mounts, including scrolling acanthus leaf details along the sides and top, an ornate flame finial rising from the apex, and distinctive curving feet supporting the base. At the centre sits a white enamel dial with black Roman numerals and an outer ring of five-minute Arabic markings, covered by a convex bevelled glass set within a cast brass bezel. The maker's name, A.D. Mougin, is signed directly onto the dial face, accompanied by two winding arbors positioned near the lower numerals. Standing at 38 cm high, 19 cm wide, and 11 cm deep, this timepiece suits placement upon a living room mantelpiece, a library shelf, or a hallway console table where its classical silhouette and gilded accents provide a striking decorative focal point.

FAQs

Boulle style clocks are ornate timepieces inspired by the technique developed by Andre-Charles Boulle during the reign of Louis XIV. They typically feature tortoiseshell, brass inlays, and gilded bronze mounts set in elaborate Rococo or Baroque silhouettes.

Traditional Boulle construction utilises a combination of natural tortoiseshell or horn veneers, brass wire or sheet inlays, heavy gilt bronze (ormolu) decorative mounts, and enamel or brass dial faces.

Authenticity is determined by evaluating maker stamps on the brass movement plates, such as those by A.D. Mougin or Japy Freres, checking for hand-chased gilt bronze castings, and examining natural age wear on the tortoiseshell and dial.

These clocks are often placed as focal points on marble mantelpieces, high-gloss console tables, or dark wood bookcases to create a striking contrast against minimalist or classic architectural backgrounds.

Maintain tortoiseshell and gilt surfaces by dusting with a soft, dry microfibre cloth; avoid harsh chemical polishes or water, which can delaminate organic veneers and degrade delicate gilding.

Masons Antiques

Tortoiseshell & Gilt Boulle Clock. A.d. Mougin

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