itryharder Store
Fine French Empire Period Gilt Bronze Ormolu Table Clock
c.1810
Neoclassical Theme.
All Original.
Movement by Thomas a Paris, signed on dial.
Bronze Case by Froisse, Paris, signed on case.
Dial signed by Thomas a Paris. Tardy lists Philippe Thomas as
a “pendulier†becoming a Master in 1779. Worked Rue des Vieux Augustins until
1812, then Rue J.J. Rousseau until 1820.
Gilt bronze case signed by Froisse. Tardy lists him as a
“bronzier†working at Rue Royale, Paris, in 1812.
The fire gilded bronze case is in with
very little loss to the gilding. The quality and detail are exceptional. The
main sculpture appears to be a mother playing with her child. There probably
was a toy in her hand which is missing. There is a small hole in her knee where
it would have attached. For a clock with a similar theme, see Niehuser, “French
Bronze Clocks†p.212
Extremely intricate “Bas Relief†panels to the front.
The beautifully finished oversize 4 ¼†diameter 8 day spring
driven movement striking the hours and halves on a bell with countwheel
striking. Silk thread suspension, recoil ancor escapement. Blued steel Breguet
hands, blued steelwork. Very delicate cast bezel. No glass over dial or rear of movement ever.
Hands, dial, movement, pendulum, bell, and case are
original. Clock comes with
correctly fitting later
keys.
I have tested this clock and it’s running perfectly and
keeping correct time.
Full disclosure: The dial is slightly chipped at the winding
holes. There is a brown lacquer applied on the case in a few places (mainly on
the lower left side of the case), this could be removed with solvent. The case
and gilding are in with the usual thinning in a few spots.
The case could be cleaned again to brighten it up but it is very respectable
just the way it is with a lovely color and patina. The movement probably is due
for a cleaning in the not too distant future though it’s running fine.
The clock will need to be on a solid level surface and the
pendulum hung. It may require slight regulation in it’s new home. This isn’t
rocket science and if you’re halfway mechanical, you can do this yourself. If
you would like, I can help you find a professional clock person near you who
can do this for you, or you can check the service listings of the NAWCC (National
Association Of Watch and Clock Collectors).
I am a former Sotheby’s clock expert and a European trained
antique clock restorer with over 30 years experience in sales and restoration
of fine European antique clocks. Member of the NAWCC since 1978. I guarantee
that this clock is original and as described.
standard shipping to USA. Expedited shipping available
at cost on request.
International buyers, please contact me for a shipping
quote.
Clock will be properly packed and fully insured. Sorry no
fudging values for customs documents.
If you have less than 10 positive feedbacks, a brand new
website identity, or several negative feedbacks, please contact me prior to
bidding.
The photos are part of the description. More photos and info
available on request. Please feel free to contact me. I want you to be completely happy with your purchase. Communication is crucial
to a successful transaction.
If you have an issue of any kind, please contact me and I
will do my utmost to resolve it.
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