Object Description
This magnificent clock set is the work of celebrated French maker Henri Picard, who collaborated on this fine piece together with the famous firm of clockmakers, Raingo Freres. Both workshops were leading makers of the 19th Century, and their union has resulted in this truly stunning work of art, horology and sculpture.
The garniture comprises a central clock and a pair of flanking candelabra, with each piece stamped ‘H. Picard’. All pieces are crafted entirely in ormolu and patinated bronze, with the gold and dark brown surface finishes strikingly complimenting one another. The ormolu clock case is of rectangular form with a central fronting apron, into which the circular clock dial is set. The dial is surrounded by acanthus leaf and ribbon decorations, and features a white enamel dial signed ‘Raingo Freres / Paris’. All around the dial, the clock case is decorated with fluting in the Neoclassical style, ornamented with flowers and bows, all set on delicate toupie feet. The clock is surmounted by a charming figural group of two cherubs cast in gleaming patinated bronze. They are depicted seated together with flowers in their hair, draped in swathes of cloth.
The pair of flanking candelabra are cast in ormolu, and feature circular bases with fluting and dolphin feet, leading the eye upwards toward the surmounting candelabras which are styled as trees. The five lights of the candelabras are set among delicate flowers with drip pans onto scrolling, leafy arms. Standing to the front of the candelabras are patinated bronze figures of a putto in draped clothing and a winged Cupid who holds his bow and arrow.
The clock- height 43cm, width 49cm, depth 19cm
The candelabra- height 60cm, width 32cm, depth 19cm