LOUIS XV STYLE GILT BRONZE MANTEL CLOCK. FRANCE, LATE 19TH CENTURY

An impressive French mantel clock dating from the late nineteenth century, executed in finely gilt bronze in the opulent Louis XV style. The sculptural composition displays exceptional plasticity and is richly adorned with characteristic Rococo ornamentation, including asymmetrical rocaille scrolls, a stylised tree trunk, gracefully flowing volutes, ornamental cartouches and luxuriant garlands of vine leaves.

At the centre of the composition is a circular enamel dial enclosed within an elaborately ornamented case. The architectural structure rises from the powerful trunk of the Tree of Life, symbolising permanence and the uninterrupted passage of time. Its sculptural form develops into an openwork canopy dissolving into dynamic rocaille scrollwork.

The principal decorative group depicts playful putti with a young goat, the traditional attribute of Bacchus, the Classical god of wine and earthly pleasures. This allegorical scene celebrates the joy of life, youth and carefree happiness. The contrast between the playful subject and the monumental architectural composition lends the clock remarkable artistic depth, transforming it from a timekeeping instrument into a symbol of harmony, happiness and the eternal renewal of nature.

The exceptional quality of the bronze casting, the finely executed chasing and the rich gilded finish place this work among the finest examples of French decorative bronze produced during the Historicist period.

Marks: Guiche Palais Royal 147.

Dimensions: Height: 52 cm.Width: 39 cm.

Condition:
Good collectors condition. The clock is in full working order. The movement has undergone a complete professional overhaul.