IVORY MANTEL CLOCK OF THE NAPOLEON III PERIOD FRANCE, PARIS, SECOND

An exceptional mantel clock from the Napoleon III period, executed in the Neoclassical style and distinguished by a rare degree of artistic and technical refinement. The case is entirely carved from ivory, featuring a finely articulated architectural silhouette with columnar supports, volutes, garlands, rosettes, and a krater-shaped vase crowning the composition. The overall design demonstrates symmetry and ceremonial grandeur characteristic of Parisian decorative arts of the 1860–1880s. The porcelain dial, presumably produced by the Royal Sèvres Manufactory, is decorated with a painted composition depicting a flying Cupid holding a wreath, accompanied by musical instruments and floral motifs. The Roman numeral chapter ring is set against a deep cobalt-blue ground with gilded ornamentation and enclosed within a gilt brass bezel. The original pierced gilt hands enhance the refined appearance of the dial. The lower frieze of the case is painted in oils with scenes of playing putti, musical attributes, and floral garlands, emphasizing the allegorical themes of love, harmony, and the arts. The clock rests on a complex, multi-tiered ivory base with profiled relief and decorative feet. The French movement features an anchor escapement and striking mechanism, signed “S. Marti & Cie – Médaille de Bronze” and additionally numbered “Chameroy – 178”. The movement has undergone professional servicing and is in working order. During inspection, a historical presentation inscription was discovered on the interior of the base beneath a brass cover: “Wedding gift to Marie Dessarps …”, adding notable memorial and provenance value. Marks: Movement signed “S. Marti & Cie – Médaille de Bronze”; numbered “Chameroy – 178”. Dimensions: 50 × 37.5 × 23.5 cm. Weight: Approx. 6,900 g. Condition: Good, with natural traces of age and use. Provenance: France, Paris; private European collection. Accompanied by a CITES certificate permitting circulation within the EU.

Estimate:$8,934.95

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