Offered by Mora Antiques
France, circa 1810
Dimensions: H. 41 × W. 30 × D. 12 cm
Later added wooden base
An elegant French Empire mantel clock in finely chased and fire-gilt bronze, depicting a reclining classical lady reading a book atop a Greco-Roman style chaise longue. The composition strongly evokes the celebrated portrait of Madame Récamier, the icon of early 19th-century neoclassicism, whose refined posture inspired many artistic interpretations during the Consulate and Empire periods.
The upper section features finely cast details: a curving daybed with lion-paw feet and rosettes, delicate tasselled friezes, and two exceptional bas-relief panels with seated muses in flowing classical robes — possibly alluding to Literature and Reflection.
The white enamel dial with Roman numerals and blued steel Breguet hands is flanked by these reliefs and has two winding holes. The movement, visible from the back, features an anchor escapement with pendulum suspension and strikes on the half and full hour.
The fire-gilt bronze clock sits atop a later-added mahogany base with Empire-style ornamentation in gilt bronze, complementing the aesthetic without compromising the original character of the upper work.
A refined and intellectually charged composition, illustrating the Empire era’s fascination with antiquity, feminine virtue, and cultured leisure.
Delevery information :
We work with an international express courier to ensure fast and secure delivery. In most cases, high-value items are shipped in a sturdy wooden crate and fully insured. Shipping costs are calculated per item and determined in consultation.
