Empire Patinated and Mercury-Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock 'The Sleeping Cupid'

An elegant Empire mantel clock executed in finely chased patinated and mercury-gilt bronze, surmounted by the figure of the sleeping Cupid reclining upon a classical daybed. The architectural case is adorned with fluted pilasters, Greek key borders, crossed arrows entwined with serpents, winged griffins flanking a Medici vase, and finely chased neoclassical ornament. The white enamel dial is signed Alexandre à Paris, a Parisian clockmaker active during the early 19th century. The clock retains its original silk suspension movement, striking the hours and half-hours on a bell. A refined example of French decorative arts from the Empire period, circa 1805–1810.