Fine and Rare Minature French Empire Ormolu Table/boudoir Clock Circa 1810

• This is a quite superb and rare little gilt bronze ‘time-piece’ clock with ‘silk suspended’ pendulum. It would have been made by one of Paris’ finest clock makers at the peak of Napoleon’s First Empire. Unfortunately, over time the makers name has not survived on the restored porcelain face.

• The gilded bronze figure is of Cupid ‘carrying time’ and its modelling, superb detailing (look at his chiselled wings which would have taken many hours to do) and original fire gilding suggests it was probably carried out by the firm of Pierre-Philippe Thomire. During the First Empire Period he was considered the most prominent ‘bronzier’ or producer of all types of ornamental gilt bronze objects.

• On the inside of the rear clock case is an old Spanish Madrid dealer label. One could speculate that the clock could have arrived in Spain as part the Napoleonic entourage, associated with Napoleon’s brother Joseph becoming the Kind of Spain 1808-13 and stayed when the French were forced to hastily leave after the battle of Vitoria!

• The 7-8 day movement is quite superb and as with the whole clock has been restored and serviced by a master clock restorer.

• The fine clock case and serviced movement comes in superlative condition with a 12 month warranty (uk only).

• Delivery £100 uk ex. Scotland.

• NOTE- the ‘matching’ ormolu Empire Candle Sticks ( in super condition) are available and their price of £850 would be discounted to £650 if bought with the clock. (Giving a total of £3400)

**************************************

Shipping

Other than a few smaller items that can be safely posted, nearly all items are hand delivered (and set up in the case of clocks) by Martin Bros who are one of Britain’s most prestigious carriers of antiques and fine art. I wish us avoid the hassle of cheap men and their vans! The standard (subsidised) delivery price shown is for mainland UK excluding Scotland. Please ask for a Quotation where the standard price is not applicable.

**************************************

Restoration and Presented Condition

I do not subscribe to the shabby chic or make it like new approach using modern materials which can make future restoration extremely difficult and impede long-term investment value.

Any restoration work is done to the highest (museum) standards using traditional materials so as to not compromise the patina of age.

Accordingly, please note some antique items for sale will have wear and marks associated with use over many generations that adds to the aesthetic beauty of the piece from the collector’s perspective.

**************************************

Fine Art - Condition

All Paintings offered have been chosen for their excellent original condition, with where necessary museum standard cleaning, restoration and revarnishing. Presented in Gallery condition they are ready to hang for many generations, before cleaning / revarnishing may be necessary.

**************************************

Any Questions?

I just love acquiring and talking about antiques and fine art so will be pleased to discuss any of the items I have for sale on UK 07515 741344 or Richard.lench1956@gmail.com.

Best wishes Richard