Object Description
Gilt bronze and hardstone inlay Napoleon III period clock set by Barbedienne
French, 19th Century
Clock: Height 50cm, width 23cm, depth 16cm
Candelabra: Height 49cm, width 19cm, depth 19cm
This stunning clock set expertly showcases the ingenuity of its maker, Ferdinand Barbedienne, and its smart styling in the opulent Napoleon III style will make it an excellent addition to a well-decorated home. Particularly impressive is the wonderful contrast between the finely-cast gilt bronze frame and the red, white, and green marble panelling.
The clock is roughly rectangular in shape and takes the form of a pedestal on a wide, shaped base. The clock case is cast in gilt bronze, the quality of which is typical of Barbedienne’s work, with intricate details including shells, floral garlands, acanthus leaves, and musical instruments. The case is also surmounted by a large sculptural surmount, depicting a bust of a beautiful, young girl. The front and sides of the clock contain stylishly coloured red, dark green, and black marble inlays, all wrought to resemble sprays laden with cherries.
The pair of four-light candelabra are similarly decorated, each crafted from gilt bronze and hardstone inlay. Each candelabrum features four ornately scrolled branches, each terminating in a single candle holder.
The circular clock dial is made from inlaid dark green veined marble inside a band of veined red marble and is signed ‘F. Barbedienne / Paris’. The sculptural bust signed to the edge ‘F. Barbedienne. Foundeur.’ and features the reduction stamp for A. Collas.