Object Description
French Charles X malachite, lapis lazuli, and gilt bronze figurative clock
French, c. 1830
Height 75cm, width 53cm, depth 23cm
This fine mantel clock is a superb example of the Charles X style. The clock, wrought from malachite, lapis lazuli, 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 lapis lazuli globe and a pile of gilt bronze books, which indicate her learning.
Beneath Urania is the malachite clock drum, inset with a circular silvered dial set within a gilt bronze bezel 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.