French Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock 19th Century

Name: Mid 19th Cent French Gilt Bronze and Patinated Bronze Mantle Clock.
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA556563
Price: 1550 GBP
Availability: InStock

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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
MaterialGilt Bronze, Patinated Bronze, Glass
ColourGold and Dark Brown
MotifsAcanthus leaves, Seated female figure, Scrollwork base, Tree stump motif
SizeH 46 cm (18 in) x W 32 cm (13 in) x D 9 cm (4 in)

This mid-19th-century French mantel clock uses gilt bronze and patinated bronze, displaying a combination of gold and dark brown tones alongside a silvered, engine-turned dial with moon hands. The eight-day movement strikes the hours and half hours on a bell, utilizing a silk suspension system. A seated female figure holding a fan rests atop a tree stump beside a small basket of flowers. The object features cornucopia feet, rococo foliate scrollwork, and an intricate matted ground across the heavily decorated base. The clock stands 46 cm high, 32 cm wide, and 9 cm deep. This shallow depth allows it to sit securely on narrow mantelpieces in a living room, study, or drawing room.

FAQs

French gilt bronze mantel clocks, often termed ormolu clocks, were created during the 19th century combining sculptural artistry with horological engineering. They typically feature classical or genre figures cast in bronze, fire-gilded, and mounted alongside mechanical pendulum movements.

These timepieces were constructed using cast bronze finished with mercury gilding, often paired with patinated dark bronze or marble elements. Clock dials were predominantly crafted from gilded brass or enamel with Roman numerals.

Authentic pieces display finely chased detail work on the bronze mounts, heavy cast construction, and French movement maker stamps or serial numbers on the back plate. Additional signs include counting wheel strike mechanisms and pendulum suspensions.

Place the clock as a focal anchor on a fireplace mantelpiece, sideboard, or marble-topped console table. Pairing the gilded metalwork with a minimal modern backdrop highlights the detailed craftsmanship without overcrowding the space.

Dust gently using a dry, soft-bristled brush or microfibre cloth, avoiding liquid cleaners or abrasive polishes that can strip delicate gilded layers. Mechanical movements should be serviced by a professional horologist every five to seven years.

Finchingfield Antiques

Mid 19th Cent French Gilt Bronze and Patinated Bronze Mantle Clock.