Object Description
This stunning clock 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 an intricately-decorated lidded urn.
The front and sides of the clock contain stylishly-coloured red, dark green and white marble inlays in geometric patterns, as well as a butterfly motif on the front side on the clock below the dial. 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’.