Important Pair Of Louis XV Style Gilt Bronze Cartel Clocks And Barometers 19th Century

An exceptional pair of matching cartel clock and barometer in gilt bronze, crafted in the 19th century (circa 1870) after an 18th-century Louis XV design. This impressive ensemble, of grand scale and lavish detail, epitomizes the opulence of the Rococo style under Louis XV. The finely chiseled and gilded bronze displays a rich array of asymmetrical curves and flowing foliate motifs characteristic of the period’s aesthetic​anticstore.com, reflecting the Louis XV era’s penchant for exuberant ornamentation.

The gilt-bronze barometer is surmounted by a winged cherub amid radiating sun-rays, with a reclining nymph and Cupid below – mirroring themes from 18th-century Rococo originals. Both the clock and barometer are profusely adorned with putti (cherubs) and elaborate classical scrollwork. Each piece features an allegorical composition: at the top, a winged cherub is nestled among radiant sunbursts, while the lower portion displays a lounging female figure with a playful Cupid lifting her drapery. This sculptural scene symbolizes Dawn and Dusk, directly inspired by renowned 18th-century models​lapendulerie.com. For example, an original Louis XV cartel clock by horloger François-Houet Duchesne depicts two cherubs amid the clouds beneath the goddess Diana​curator.org – a prestigious precedent that clearly informed the design of our 19th-century pieces.

Created during the Second Empire of Napoleon III, this ensemble reflects the 19th-century Rococo Revival trend, when France revisited the luxurious ornamentation of its Louis XV heritage​en.wikipedia.org. The enamel dials bear the signature “Docteur A. Chevalier, Palais Royal, Paris,” indicating a fabrication circa 1870 (Arthur Chevalier added the title Docteur to his signature after receiving an honorary doctorate in 1870​rouillac.com). This famed Parisian maker, based at the Palais-Royal, was renowned for high-quality scientific instruments and clockwork, and his mark on the piece attests to its esteemed origin and authenticity.

With its monumental size, sumptuous gilded decoration, and rich allegorical iconography, this clock-and-barometer set is a striking example of Louis XV style artistry expertly revived in the 19th century. It serves not only as an extravagant decorative focal point but also as a testament to the enduring craftsmanship and elegant design traditions of French decorative arts.

Dimensions :
Hauteur : 108 cm
Largeur : 60 cm
Profondeur : 23 cm