Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock "the Oath Of Love" Or "the Art Of Loving" By Ovide Circa 1805

Gilt Bronze Clock "The Oath of Love" or "The Art of Loving" by Ovide
An intriguing gilt bronze clock, both matte and polished, circa 1805, where the depiction of Psyche and Love occupies the main space of the clock. The theme is inspired by the adventures of Psyche according to the Latin author Apuleius (125–180 AD). The story of Cupid and Psyche is presented as an allegory of the soul, torn between carnal love and divine love.
Psyche is kneeling in front of a book, suggesting a prayer book; in reality, it is "The Art of Loving" by the poet Ovid (circa 1 AD), which teaches men, in Books I and II, the art of winning a woman’s love, and offers women in Book III advice on how to captivate, maintain love, and preserve the relationship.
Divine Love, dressed as a Capuchin, holds high an inflamed heart. Love stands on an antique swan-necked seat, simulating the chariot of love.
The hexagonal base is adorned with applied decorations of wreaths, urns, and rosettes, and includes a bas-relief of Love offering a rose to Psyche, here symbolized as a butterfly. In his other hand, he holds a broken chain, symbolizing the power of love. The clock rests on four toupie feet.
Movement with an 8-day autonomy, chiming on the hour and half-hour. It has a suspension by wire. Original mercury gilding in very good condition.
Clock circa 1805 signed Prince in Paris.
Dimensions: 38.5 cm
Width: 32 cm
Depth: 11 cm
Empire period
Condition report: Clock in good condition with well-preserved original mercury gilding, finely chiseled. Minor enamel loss near the winding hole. The tip of the minute hand has been restored.
Reference: Model reproduced in French Bronze Clock by Elke Niehuser, Schiffer Book edition, page 137, photo 226.