Object Description
French Charles X malachite and gilt bronze figurative clock
French, c. 1830
Height 62cm, width 45cm, depth 16cm
This fine mantel clock is a superb example of the Charles X style. The clock, wrought from malachite and gilt bronze, features the distinctive feature of most Charles X period clocks: a large sculptural surmount. In the present clock, the sculptural surmount depicts Urania, Greek muse of astronomy. She is accompanied by a malachite globe and a pile of gilt bronze books, which indicate her learning.
Beneath Urania is the malachite clock drum, inset with a circular gilt bronze dial moulded with zodiacal signs. The sculptural surmount is supported by a stepped malachite base mounted with gilt bronze elements, including a blind cartouche. The clock is raised on scrolled feet.