Sold: Quality Antique 19th Century French Boulle Mantle Clock

Name: Quality Antique 19th Century French Boulle Mantle Clock
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1214198
Price: 1125 GBP
Availability: SoldOut

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Cataloguer’s Note

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectMantel Clocks
Period19th century
StyleFrench Rococo Revival
MaterialBrass, Tortoiseshell, Ormolu, Enamel
ColourGold, Red
MotifsBrass marquetry, Enamel cartouche numerals, Rococo scroll mounts, Acanthus leaf feet
SizeH 22 cm (9 in) x W 14 cm (6 in) x D 12 cm (5 in)

This nineteenth-century French Rococo Revival mantel clock displays a vibrant Boulle design incorporating brass marquetry over a red tortoiseshell ground, complemented by bright gold ormolu mounts. The shaped case incorporates scrolling foliate decoration, raised on ornate acanthus leaf feet. A circular central dial features black Roman numerals upon individual white enamel cartouches, surrounded by an elaborately chased gilt face with original hands. The composition measures 22 cm high, 14 cm wide, and 12 cm deep. Positioned upon a mantelpiece or a side table within a sitting room or study, this traditional timepiece adds decorative character to an interior. The compact proportions allow placement on narrower ledges or shelving units while retaining a strong visual presence through the contrast of dark tortoiseshell, warm red tones, and polished metal surfaces.

FAQs

A French Boulle clock utilizes a distinctive marquetry technique incorporating cut brass and tortoiseshell veneers applied over a wooden case, popularized during the seventeenth century by cabinetmaker Andre-Charles Boulle and widely produced into the nineteenth century.

These clock cases are constructed using brass inlay cut into intricate scrolling patterns, set against polished natural tortoiseshell, embellished with cast brass or ormolu mounts and housing a mechanical brass movement.

Authentic nineteenth-century pieces feature hand-cut tortoiseshell with natural organic grain variations, heavy cast brass or gilded bronze mounts with hand-chiseled finishing details, and period mechanical clockworks with enamel cartouche dials.

Position the clock as a central accent on a fireplace mantelpiece, sideboard, or library bookshelf, balancing the ornate marquetry with clean lines and contemporary decorative items.

Keep the clock in a temperature-controlled environment away from direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent the tortoiseshell veneer from drying or lifting, and dust gently using a soft, dry lint-free cloth without chemical polishes.

Unique Antiques by Emma Jade

Quality Antique 19th Century French Boulle Mantle Clock