Object Description
Napoleon III period three-piece gilt bronze clock set by Lerolle Frères
French, c. 1860
Clock: Height 59cm, width 52cm, depth 23cm
Candelabra: Height 72cm, width 32cm, depth 20cm
This magnificent clock set is crafted in the Rococo style, which flourished in French decorative art once again during the Second Empire, when Napoleon III ruled France. The set comprises a mantel clock and a pair of flanking candelabra, with all three pieces being crafted from gilt bronze.
The mantel clock features an exceptionally ornate gilt bronze body profusely moulded with foliate detailing, with splayed acanthus leaves and the rocaille form abounding. The gilt bronze case is topped with a gilt bronze sculptural group of Psyche accompanied by three winged cherubs. The case supports a spherical clock drum, wrought from black painted metal, which is mounted with gilt numerals and gilt bronze stars.
The candelabra are similarly formed, each with a body crafted in the Rococo style around the motifs of the acanthus leaf and the rocaille. Each candelabrum features a stem comprised of three winged cherubs, and each issues six scrolling foliate light branches.
The movement is stamped ‘Lerolle Fres A Paris’