STUNNING ANTIQUE FRENCH STATUE STRIKING MANTLE CLOCK
Please make use of the "enlarge feature" to enjoy everything this wonderful clock has to offer. If I had not mentioned French in the title, anyone seeing it would have already have known, such is its elegance, style and beauty.
This is a wonderful combination of art and functionality. Although the clock has been keeping time for well over 120 years (and still does), it is not the first thing you will notice, how could it be? Clothed in mottled variegated green marble (Belgium slate), adorned with ornate gilt painted ormolu and topped with a beautiful, scantily clad woman and cherub......you are spoilt for choice of just where to place your eyes.
The base is without damage, unusual in clock of this material. Its fabulous colour acting as a backdrop for the wonderful "claw and ball" feet, wings and dial surround. The painted porcelain dial, fine hands, bevelled glass all just set the scene before the main event.
The figures that stand atop are sublime. She has looks, attitude and lots and lots of movement, while the winged and trumpet playing cherub is protected by her motherly figure. I'm sure there is a deeper meaning, there usually is, but without delving deeper, they will remain a beautiful, mysterious enigma. To the front there is a plaque reading "ESSOR", which will be the title of the piece. The base of the statue also has a signature of "Ferville Suan"(1845-1925), who is easily found on the internet and its famous for his bronzes. This, however, is gilt painted spelter.There is also a foundry mark at the back.
Back to the clock...a top quality French movement made by Japy Freres. It carries their cast mark, awarded at one of the Paris Expositions. The clock comes fully working, keeping wonderful time, and striking the half and full hours on a "blued steel" gong. It stands a full 23 inches high, a width of 12 inches and a depth of 7 inches.
A glorious and magnificent looking antique clock that oozes French charm and style by the bucket load. In any setting, this is going to be a focal point, while doing what it was designed for all those years ago, tell the time, but with great aplomb.
The item is obviously fragile. Collection from North Lincs (near the Humber bridge) is highly recommended, but if postage is the only option, I will use a overnight courier to lessen the chances of damage. I take great pride in my packing, but if the postal option is your choice, then it must be "at the buyers own risk".
If an extra photo or question answered will help, please just drop me a line.
Good hunting.
Payment or contact must be made within 5 days of auction ending. Overseas buyers, payment only by Paypal. While every effort is made to pack an item well, I can not be held responsible for any damage/loss caused by the postal service.
Antique clocks are not insurable by anybody other than a specialist handler. If in doubt, please contact me soonest.
We will ship worldwide at buyers request and understanding that Antique clocks are NOT covered by shipping insurance.Collection in person is welcomed. If any buyers want to arrange their own courier service to collect the clock this can be arranged for an agreed collection date.