Object Description
A Fine Late 19th Century French Le Roy and Fils Ormolu Mantel Clock
The ornate case in the Louis XVI style with finely cast and chased ornament, a tribute to the art of the bronziers of the 18th century. The case has a large urn finial, topped with a naturalistic flower and flanked by rocaille leaf-type handles. The pedestal upon which the urn rests has a fluted base which balances on a different fluted moulding above the dial, itself flanked by pearled beading. The domed area around the dial has four small floral finials. The case has architectural columns to each side and a fine floral mount beneath the dial. The pendulum bob incorporates the mask of apollo on top of a radiating sun. The hands are beautifully pierced and chased and the blued Roman numerals on the dial contrast effectively with the black painted chapter ring and outer Arabic numerals.
The movement strikes on a bell and is signed and numbered Le Roy & Fils, R.10501, Paris. The dial is signed with both the Paris address and the address of the London branch, suggesting that this clock was retailed in England. The London branch of the firm was not established until 1885 so this clock likely dates to around 1890.
Le Roy & Fils
The firm was established in Paris in 1785, the firm’s founder later becoming personal clockmaker to Napoleon Bonaparte. The firm was located in the Palais Royale, Paris’ world famous luxury district, and remained there until 1865. The firm opened retail premises in London at 57 New Bond Street in 1885 but the clocks sold there were all made in Paris rather than in an English workshop. The firm was famous for the quality of its ormolu cases, the casting, chasing and gilding of exemplary quality and inspired by the masters of the past. The firm exhibited at many of the major international exhibitions in the 19th century, winning countless awards and medals in the process.