Object Description
Antique gilt-bronze clock and barometer set by Maison Mottheau et Fils
French, c. 1880
Height 85cm, width 45cm, depth 30cm
This ornamental clock and barometer set were crafted by the renowned French bronzier Maison Mottheau – an esteemed producer of bronze for the best ébénistes of 19th century Paris – in collaboration with the award-winning Lemerle-Charpentier & Compagnie. The pair are virtually identical in size and design.
The enamel dial of the clock is marked with large Roman numerals, and is inset within an ormolu overlay decorated with a lion mask and scrolling forms. The glass casing of both dials is held within a leaf-and-dart bezel.
The dials sit within elaborate ormolu cases, which feature trumpet-wielding cherubs applied to each side. The pieces are surmounted by crowned patinated bronze spheres within acanthus leaf supports, and each item of the pair terminates in a pinecone finial. Extensive foliate and scroll moulding can be seen throughout, adding to the impressiveness of the pair.
The barometer dial is signed ‘E. Mottheau Paris’, and the clock movement is signed ‘LEMERLE CHARPENTIER’ and ‘LESIEUR’.
With their grand design, this superb pair are sure to be stand-out pieces in any home.