Clock and garniture set - Marti' e t freres - Brass, Bronze - 1850-1900

Important Brass and Marble Mantel Garniture (Garniture de Cheminée) by Samuel Marti - Late 19th / Early 20th Century

I present at auction a monumental and magnificent Mantel Garniture (Trittico da camino) dating from the period, composed of a large monumental table clock and its two decorative, coordinated cassolettes. The lot also includes the three rare original period gilded wood display supports.

This exceptional ensemble embodies the quintessence of high French decorative craftsmanship at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. Originally designed for the salons of the upper middle class, the triptych stands out for its majestic elegance: the combination of materials, the golden reflections of brass, and the period color contrasts create a rare scenographic effect. Thanks to its eclectic, timeless style, this set is not only a witness to the history of timekeeping but also an exclusive interior-art object, capable of imparting importance, character, and a majestic elegance to any modern room, professional study, or historic residence.

The heart of the clock houses a high-quality pendulum movement bearing the prestigious mark of French clockmaking Samuel Marti, multi-awarded at the Great Exhibitions in Paris (Gold Medal 1900).
The mechanism features a beautiful, crystal-clear period chiming. From a horological standpoint, it is a true jewel of historical micromechanics, made according to the era’s strict codes and recently checked and adjusted by an old master clockmaker.

Technical Specification of the Triptych:
Type: Mantel Triptych / Garniture de Cheminée (Clock + 2 Cassolettes)
Manufacturing Mechanism: Samuel Marti (France)
Movement: Mechanical pendulum with strike
Materials: Heavy brass, period marble/stone elements, and wooden supports
Dimensions (Clock): 37 x 31 x 15 cm approx. (excluding stand)
Dimensions (Each Cassolette): 30 x 19 x 15 cm approx. (excluding stand)
Clock Weight: approximately 8.100 kg (a large, solid block)
Weight of Cassolettes: approximately 1.860 kg each (total just over 3.7 kg)
Compatible winding key included (recently purchased, fully functional)

The triptych comes from a prestigious family estate and has always been cared for with meticulous devotion. As an antique and authentic item, it is presented in its original discovery condition to preserve its integrity. I do not know how many chimes or striking sequences it has, so I have included an example.

For maximum commercial seriousness, the following collectible details (clearly visible in the close-up photos) are noted: The structure shows small, elegant signs of age, with partial and fascinating wear of the gilding/brass patina. The piece should be cleaned: a gentle specialized brass polishing will restore its original luster. Both the clock and the cassolettes rest on their original adjustable brass feet. The Glass: The front protective glass functions perfectly visually and protectively, though it shows slight period play in the closing frame. The Wooden Supports: The three original wooden supports lined in velvet are included. Consistent with their age, they show signs of wear and velvet losses, but remain essential to the triptych’s historical setting.

Note on operation and installation: The movement has been tested and is functioning. However, as with all antique pendulum clocks, chronometric accuracy is not guaranteed. Upon receipt, the clock should be positioned perfectly level (using a spirit level) on the destination surface; otherwise the mechanism could stop or lose accuracy. To ensure the best purchase experience, the seller will provide a detailed written guide with instructions for proper alignment and pendulum maintenance.

Given the exceptional total weight (well over 12 kg) and the extreme delicacy of the cassolettes and pendulum pins, shipping will be handled with maximum safety standards: The clock and the two cassolettes will be shipped separately isolated. The pendulum and moving parts will be secured to prevent stress. Everything will be wrapped in layers of bubble wrap and other materials to provide cushioning and durability, inside a box designed to withstand shocks. Courier express shipping with a tracking code will be used. The lot will travel with full insurance coverage for the final sale value.