Object Description
Antique marble and gilt bronze clock and barometer set
English, 19th Century
Height 49cm, width 20cm, depth 12cm
Exuding a rare blend of 19th-century British craftsmanship and elegance, this exquisite set of gilt bronze and marble clock and barometer from the esteemed Barwise & Sons, London, is a unique pairing seldom encountered, especially when accompanied by such remarkable quality and artistry.
The individual pieces, each resonating the harmonious elegance of a lyre through their design, are set within pristine white marble cases, enhancing the overall refinement of the set. They dazzle with starburst crowns, an emblem of radiant beauty resting atop the intricately adorned leaf work – an homage to natural grace.
Nestled within the decadent diamantine bezels are the enamelled dials, epitomising delicate artistry and revealing the exquisite engineering that underpins their functionality. The radiant starburst motif from the crowns is echoed on the background of these dials, infusing the set with a vibrant, jubilant opulence.
The oval bases of the pieces are adorned with lavish gilt foliage decorations, with a floral frieze in gilt accentuating the lower section. The ensemble is mounted on four expansive toupie feet.
The barometer dial proudly carries the inscription ‘Exd by / Barwise / 46 St James St / London SW’, attesting to the noble heritage of the set. The Barwise lineage, a prominent horological dynasty founded by John Barwise in London in 1780, became the purveyor of high-end watches and clocks to the British elite by the 1820s.
Surpassing the usual standard of similar items, this set stands as a testament to superior quality and distinctive English craftsmanship. Combining aesthetic allure and functional mastery, this clock and barometer set is a rare gem in any collection.