Object Description
Neoclassical 18th Century ormolu and marble lyre clock
French, Louis XVI period
Height 64m, width 27cm, depth 12cm
This exquisite mantel clock was crafted during the reign of Louis XVI. The clock is shaped as an ormolu lyre, and features a surmounting classical head surrounded by flowers and sunbeams, set atop the strings of the lyre. The body of the lyre is flanked to left and right with eagle heads mounted on the curved frame, and within to the lower section is set the circular clock dial, signed ‘a Paris’ and featuring black Arabic numerals and ormolu hands. The clock dial is bordered with sunbeams and a wreath of laurel leaves. The entire lyre is mounted onto a base of white, veined marble with ormolu beading, swags and grotesques, all set on ormolu toupie feet.