Soap bubbles

The clock standing on the mantelpiece in the Bedroom of Princess Izabella Lubomirska is the work of the famous French bronze maker from around 1800, Pierre – Philippe Thomire (1751–1843), who collaborated with the Sevres manufacture, setting the porcelain produced there in gilded bronze. He produced many works commissioned by King Louis XVI and the greatest European courts. The clock kept in Łańcut was bought by Princess Izabella Lubomirska, who created here a splendid residence, surrounding herself with the best works of art. The clock is made of gilded bronze and features a figural motif. The enamelled white dial features black Roman numerals and the inscription THOMIRE AND CO. The dial is mounted in a cuboid case which is decorated with the mythological sculptural group of Amor and Iris. A discarded quiver and a laurel wreath lie at the Cupid’s feet. He stretches out his arms towards the soap-bubbling winged goddess Iris, the personification of the rainbow in Greek mythology. Of the collection of castle clocks, Thormire’s work represents the highest artistic class. It is worth mentioning that nowadays the artist’s works can be found in the most prominent European and U.S. museums.