A French Napoleon III Fireplace Set Clock And Candelabra

An important Louis XVI style mantelpiece set, comprising a clock and two three-light candelabra.

The patinated and gilt bronze clock depicts Cupid veiling passing Time. He points to his attributes, a torch and a quiver, supported by a cloud of flowers. The beautifully enameled dial is signed by F. Berthoud Paris.

The set rests on a rectangular griotte marble base, highlighted at the top by a double frieze of gilt bronze with floral and interlacing motifs, and at the bottom by a frieze of alternating spandrels and acanthus leaves.
The patinated and gilt bronze candelabra depict two putti holding three fleurs-de-lis, each terminating in a light. French work.

Circa 1870.

Dimensions:

Clock
Height 50 cm
Length 54 cm
Depth 22 cm

Candelabra
Height 87 cm
Length 40 cm
Depth 19 cm

The Ferdinand Berthoud Company.

Foundation: The Berthoud company was founded in the 18th century by Ferdinand Berthoud (1727–1807), a Swiss watchmaker who became a naturalized French citizen.

Renown: Ferdinand Berthoud is famous for his extremely precise marine chronometers, which were used by the French Navy. He was also watchmaker to the King, which gave him a prestigious and recognized status throughout the country.

Specialty: The company specialized in precision clocks and enamel dials. Its pieces are distinguished by the finesse of their mechanisms, the quality of their materials, and the elegance of their dials.

Continuation: After Ferdinand Berthoud's death in 1807, the company continued its operations throughout the 19th century. The name "Berthoud" remained in use by its Parisian workshops, which perpetuated the company's expertise, techniques, and reputation. 19th-century Berthoud clocks are still signed Ferdinand Berthoud in homage to the founder.

Style and influence: 19th-century Berthoud clocks reflect the Parisian classical and neoclassical styles, and later the refined aesthetics of the Second Empire, combining decorative elegance with horological precision.

Collection and interest: Today, Berthoud clocks, whether from the 18th or 19th century, are highly sought after by collectors for their mechanical quality, history, and artistic value.