Very Important Mantel Clock "raphaël Raffaello Santi" Mid 19th Century

This mantel clock, entitled "Raphaël Raffaello Santi", is a remarkable work of clockmaking dating from the mid-19th century. It belongs to the category of so-called "borne" clocks, a style of clock characterized by its rectangular and massive shape, reminiscent of a terminal or pillar. This impressive piece is made of noble materials, combining patinated and gilded bronze and black marble. The choice of these materials is particularly representative of the Romantic era, which attached great importance to the beauty and sumptuousness of decorative art objects. The black marble, which forms the main structure of the clock, is finely polished and gives the whole a sober and majestic elegance. This type of marble, often used in the decorative arts of the 19th century, evokes solidity and prestige, while the gilded bronze ornaments bring luminous and rich touches. Gilt bronze was a particularly prized material at this time, not only for its durability but also for its brilliance and ability to magnify ornamental details. The clock is decorated with finely chiseled bronze motifs, which accentuate its refinement and decorative character. At the top of this clock sits a patinated bronze figure representing Raphael, one of the most famous painters of the Italian Renaissance. Raphael, or Raffaello Santi (1483-1520), is immortalized here in the guise of a young man, faithful to the idealized image of the Romantic artist. The patinated and gilded bronze wall figure, overlooking the clock, adds an artistic dimension to the ensemble, recalling the close link between the fine arts and the decorative arts in the 19th century. Raphael’s presence on this object is no accident: he is the perfect embodiment of the visionary artist, both sensitive and brilliant, a figure admired and venerated in the Romantic era. The dial of the clock, circular and sober, is marked with Roman numerals, a typical choice of clocks of this period. The Roman numerals bring a touch of classicism and tradition, reinforcing the impression of a piece that is both functional and aesthetic. The dial is framed by rich gilt bronze ornamentation, which echoes the other decorative elements of the clock, notably the chiselled motifs on the sides and base. The clock measures 57 cm in height, with a base of 16 x 32 cm, making it an imposing and majestic piece. It weighs 19.5 kg, a weight that testifies to the quality of the materials used and the care taken in its manufacture. The dimensions and weight of the object show that it was intended to sit on a mantelpiece or a prestigious piece of furniture, in the heart of a romantic-style living room or dining room. This clock is not only an instrument for measuring time, but also a decorative object of great prestige. The gilded bronze ornamentation is particularly rich and refined. We can observe details chiseled with great precision, floral or geometric motifs that recall the influence of neoclassical and romantic styles. These ornaments are not purely decorative, they are also meaningful, symbolizing the aspiration to harmony and beauty that characterizes romanticism. The choice of Raphael as the central figure of this clock is also significant of the taste of the time for the Italian Renaissance, a period perceived as a golden age of art and culture. The 19th century saw a real craze for Renaissance artists, whose works and lives were erected as models of artistic and moral perfection. Raphaël, with his elegant style and balanced compositions, perfectly embodies this ideal. This mantel clock is therefore much more than a simple utilitarian object. It is a testimony to the taste for luxurious ornamentation and the reference to the great masters of art that characterized the 19th century. This object is available for sale in my shop at 57 rue Victor Hugo, 76000 Rouen Possibility of delivery (ask for a transport quote) You can follow me on my Instagram by following this link: https://www.instagram.com/patrick.boussougant/ Back to the shop: Online sale of antique objects and furniture, purchase in complete security (abnantiquites.com)