Mantel clock case

A gilt bronze sculptural cased mantel clock with the theme of glorifying the patron saints of France, in this case Joan of Arc.

The sculptural composition is generally in the shape of a triangle, on a wider base formed by open-work rococo motifs, leaf scrolls, clamshell elements and a palmette placed on the main axis. The two end leaf scrolls act as feet. The high pedestal with architectural features is decorated with three slabs of white marble as a background for central ornaments, including a coat of arms shield in the central part, with helmet on a background of crossed swords. On the pedestal there is a fragment of the ruins of the old castle with column, steps and silver miniature of the figure of a monk standing against the door. In the central part a round, white enamelled clock face is incorporated. In the finial of the ruins there is a silver figure of a girl sitting on a stone in stylised armour with an incomplete sword in her right hand, her left hand supported on the dial. The clock mechanism is hidden inside a bronze casting, with access to it in the form of a round door with acoustic holes. It has a spring drive separate for the running and a separate one for the striking, as well as short, heavy pendulum. The key for winding the clock has been preserved.

A version of this clock with twin ornaments depicting the character of King Charles VII was also popular.

AK