Object Description
19th Century French pink marble and ormolu clock set
French, Late 19th Century
Clock: Height 46cm, width 23cm, depth 18cm
Candelabra: Height 44.5cm, width 22cm, depth 20cm
This unusual three-piece clock garniture combines stunning pink marble with ormolu classicised decoration. Featuring ornate pierced gilt brass hands, the porcelain dial of the mantel clock is framed with a floral motif that complements the tones of the marble. The clock is covered with elegant gilt-bronze classical decoration: surmounting the dial is an ormolu torch and laurel cresting, whilst the case is flanked by two hoof-footed caryatids, whose bodies are decorated with acanthus leaves. Two further hoofed feet adorn the front and back of the clock.
The marble case is of an unusual deep pink shade, with pleasing veining throughout. The body of the clock is urn-shaped, with particularly fine fluting on the neck. The clock is surmounted by an ormolu finial, whilst the plinth features expertly cast drapery between four toupie feet. Both the finial and plinth feature further acanthus motifs.
The two flanking candelabra feature similar designs, with pink marble bodies alongside ormolu caryatids and plinths. One light fixture sits atop the ormolu stem, whilst three further capitals sit atop curling arms. The light fixtures also feature classically inspired foliate decoration.
The dial also features a retailer’s mark, which reads ‘Mercery & Cie 12 Rue du Parc Royal Paris’.
With its unusual pink colour and exquisite classicised elements, this three-piece set would make a wonderful addition to the appropriate interior space.