Empire Style Mantel Clock

Royal Antique is honored to present this sophisticated mantel clock, a collector's piece of rare distinction, which embodies the grandeur and refinement of the French Empire style. Entirely crafted in gilt bronze, it rests on a rectangular base with four feet, each intricately carved with subtle patterns, testifying to the artistic mastery of the era.

Figurative Allegory and Imperial Design:

• Allegory of Music: Crowning the clock is a superbly detailed female figure, entirely in gilt bronze, seated at a small piano or harpsichord, actively playing. This graceful scene is a poetic allegory of Music, an art form highly prized and cultivated during the Empire, symbolizing harmony and culture.

• Imperial Symbolism: Impressively flanking the dial are two majestic eagles, powerful emblems of the Napoleonic Empire. The eagle, often associated with military triumph, imperial power, and authority, underscores the glorious aspirations that defined this period.

• Enamelled Dial: The exquisitely enamelled white dial features Roman numerals for the hours and Arabic numerals for the minutes (at fifteen-minute increments, with small dots for intermediate minutes), all encircled by four decorative stars. The signature "Crouy à Paris" attests to its origin from a renowned Parisian clockmaker.

• Romantic Scene on Base: The base of the clock features a finely executed bas-relief depicting a romantic scene with a couple in a pastoral setting. This idyllic scene, likely an allegory of Love or bucolic Happiness, adds a narrative and sentimental dimension to the work, contrasting with the architectural rigor of the Empire style.

Historical and Cultural Context:

This clock not only represents the artistic and stylistic characteristics of the Empire period – with its predilection for gilt bronze, classical forms, and imperial symbolism – but it also offers insight into the cultural values of the era. These include the appreciation for liberal arts (music) and idealized scenes of pastoral life. It exemplifies the ability of early 19th-century artisans to combine precise horological engineering with rich iconography and allegorical messages, creating objects that are both functional and profoundly significant.

It is a masterpiece of the Empire era, blending horological precision with profound artistic narrative. This commanding focal point would be a treasured acquisition for any distinguished collection or refined interior.