Object Description
Large Louis XV style Rococo ormolu three-piece clock set by Barbedienne
French, Late 19th Century
Clock: height 58cm, width 51cm, depth 19cm
Candelabra: height 75cm, width 35cm, depth 28cm
Cast by Barbedienne, Ferdinand (French, 1810-1892), this magnificent three-piece clock set recreates the majesty of the Louis XV period to great effect, with each of the three pieces lined in sumptuous gilt-bronze.
It comprises a central clock and pair of flanking candelabra: the clock with enamel dial signed ‘F. Barbedienne / A Paris’, and the movement and ring inscribed ‘Ed. Minart.’ The clock features a shaped triangular body, topped by a classical urn, which is crowned by a pinecone finial and draped with swags. At the centre of the clock case, there is a circular white enamel dial which features black Arabic Numbers and Roman Numerals which is covered by a glass lens with a beaded bezel and is surmounted by a ribbon bow. The clock dial is set on a plinth which is flanked by two acanthus leaf scrolls, draped with swags.
Each candelabrum features eight lights: one central candle-holder—with a removable flame finial—and seven more supported on curved, twisting branches. Scrolls enclosing floral motifs decorate these branches. The branches terminate in beaded drip-pans and urn-shaped capitals with beaded sconces. They spring from twin-handled urns, set on shaped triangular stems. Like the clock, these stems feature pedestal-like central supports, which are flanked by leafy scrolls, draped with swags. They stand on oval bases, which are decorated with foliage.