Large Napoleon III Ormolu & Sevres Porcelain Mantel Clock Etienne Lenoir 55cm

Important Large Museum-Quality Napoleon III Gilt Bronze and Sèvres-Style Porcelain Mantel Clock, Dial Signed Etne Lenoir, Paris, Circa 1870

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Description

An impressive and large Napoleon III period mantel clock of museum-quality, executed in finely cast and chased gilt bronze (ormolu) and richly mounted with Sèvres-style porcelain plaques on a bleu céleste ground. The enamel dial is signed “Etne Lenoir, Paris”, dating the piece to the third quarter of the 19th century, circa 1870.

The architectural case is designed in the Louis XVI classical revival style, incorporating fluted columns, beaded borders, egg-and-dart mouldings and finely chased decorative mounts. The structure reflects the taste for monumental architectural clocks produced in Paris during the Second Empire period, when elaborate mantel clocks were created for the grand interiors of aristocratic and bourgeois homes.

The upper section is surmounted by two finely sculpted classical female figures reclining beside a central urn finial. These figures are cast with elegant drapery and balanced proportions, forming a harmonious sculptural composition typical of high-quality Parisian bronze workshops of the period.

The case is further enriched with multiple Sèvres-style porcelain panels set within the gilt bronze mounts. These plaques are decorated on a bleu céleste ground, a colour strongly associated with the celebrated Sèvres porcelain manufactory.

The central plaque below the dial depicts two winged putti with artistic attributes, painted in delicate polychrome enamels. Additional porcelain panels on the sides and base feature finely painted floral sprays framed by elaborate gilt ornament, creating a striking contrast with the warm tones of the gilded bronze.

The white enamel dial, signed Etne Lenoir, Paris, displays blue Roman numerals for the hours and Arabic minute markers, and is enclosed by a moulded gilt bronze bezel fitted with convex glass.

The clock houses a traditional French eight-day movement striking the hours and half-hours on a bell, accessed from the rear of the case. Clocks bearing the Lenoir name were retailed in Paris during the 19th century, continuing the legacy of one of the most respected Parisian horological families.

The clock stands on an architectural base supported by six gilt bronze feet, completing the symmetrical temple-form design.

Large architectural clocks with Sèvres-style porcelain panels such as this example were among the most luxurious decorative clocks produced in Paris during the Napoleon III era, intended as prestigious mantel displays in important interiors.

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Dimensions

Height: 55 cm

Width: 38 cm

Depth: 18 cm

Weight: approx. 14.9 kg

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Condition

Very good antique condition. The gilt bronze retains a rich original surface with light wear consistent with age. Porcelain panels in excellent condition. Movement complete and functioning; routine servicing is recommended for clocks of this

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