Object Description
Empire period ormolu and enamel Ceres mantel clock after Thomire
French, c.1810
Height 46cm, width 38cm, depth 13cm
This superb mantel clock was made in the First French Empire period after a model by the acclaimed bronzier and sculptor Pierre-Philippe Thomas. The wide circular enamel dial is mounted and adorned with beautiful ormolu decoration and mounts, coating the piece in gold from base to top. The sculptural figure on top is that of Ceres, the Roman goddess of fertility and agriculture, as can be seen from the wheatsheaves in her right hand. She reclines elegantly atop the clock, and a large arc of drapery surmounts her figure and the piece as a whole. Dating to c.1810 this superb piece is exemplary of the grandeur, luxury, and ostentatious qualities of the French Empire period and style.