French Clock-Vase - Comminges Palais Royal N° 62A Paris - Gold plated - 1800-1850 - (NO RESERVE)

French mantel clock in the shape of a classical vase, signed Comminges
Paris, Empire, circa 1820–1829
Gilded and patinated bronze, enamelled dial
Eight-day anchor escapement movement with half-hour strike on a bell
Dimensions: Height: 40 cm, Width: 13 cm, Depth: 13 cm

Monumental French mantel clock in the form of a classical vase, executed in dark green patinated bronze and provided with richly chiseled and gilded bronze mounts. The elongated vase body rests on a profiled foot above a rectangular plinth with four rounded feet. On both sides rise two strongly curved swan necks, with the feathers rendered in relief. The swan heads flank the broad gilded neck opening and form a characteristic part of the neoclassical decorative scheme.

The round white enamel dial bears Roman numerals, a fine minute track, and steel Breguet-style hands. It is signed:

Comminges
Palais Royal N° 62
A Paris

The dial, showing wear from use around the left winding arbor (see detail photos), is surrounded by a broad gilded bezel with a finely cross-hatched braid pattern. A symmetrically placed laurel leaf garland follows the top of the bezel; beneath the dial is a striped laurel wreath. The swan necks terminate along the sides in palmette ornaments. The base and plinth are also equipped with chiseled bands featuring neoclassical foliage and palmette motifs.

The round brass clock movement is accessible from the back. It is an eight-day spring-driven movement with separate trains for going and striking, identifiable by the two winding openings on the dial. The striking mechanism strikes every half hour on a centrally mounted bell. The back shows the strike mechanism’s securing thread. Time regulation is achieved by a pendulum, whose small lens moves beneath the vase body.

The inscription on the dial provides a concrete basis for dating. Comminges is listed in Parisian trade records at Galerie de Pierre 62 in the Palais-Royal in 1820, 1822–1823, 1825, 1826 and 1827 and at Galerie Montpensier 62 in 1829. Comminges is mentioned in the literature as a pupil of Jean-Antoine Lépine.

The Palais-Royal formed, in the early decades of the nineteenth century, an important Parisian center for the trade in luxury goods, where several clockmakers and jewelers were established. Very little is documented about Comminges’ clocks. An approximately 1820-dated mantel regulator with the same signature “Comminges, Palais Royal N° 62” confirms his activity at this address in this period.

The combination of the amphora-shaped case, the contrasting green patinated and gilded surfaces, the swan motifs, and the strictly symmetrical ornamentation aligns with the French late Empire and early Restoration stylistic language. Based on the documented address, the present piece can be more precisely dated to Paris, circa 1820–1829.

The clock runs and is sold in its current condition. No guarantees are given regarding the mechanism’s operation or accuracy.

The photos provide an extensive view of the case, dial, back and interior, pendulum, bells and movement. They form an integral part of the condition description. Prospective buyers are advised to study all photos carefully before bidding.

Due to age, technicality and complexity, buyers are advised to have the movement checked, leveled, and adjusted by a specialized clockmaker after placement. Commissioning these services is the buyer’s choice and responsibility; this service is not included in the purchase and is not provided by the seller.

All shipping in professional packaging via FedEx, DPD or PostNL.

For all shipments there is a surcharge for packaging materials, which is already included in the stated shipping price.

The buyer is responsible for any import duties and additional costs that may apply upon delivery abroad.

Shipping works always carries certain risks. Although shipping is possible, we recommend collecting the clock in person whenever this option is available. If shipping is chosen, it is entirely at the buyer’s risk. Picking up ensures the work is received undamaged and in optimum condition. After purchase, an appointment can easily be scheduled to collect the clock at our workshop and studio, where it will be prepared safely and carefully for you.

Transport: Quote request via our website (Service-transport) or via Catawiki support

We strive to deliver the clock safely and in optimal condition, paying careful attention to packaging and shipping procedures. If you have questions or special requests, you can always contact Catawiki customer service.

From the moment your purchase is confirmed, we treat every shipment as an individual project. Each clock is carefully packed with high-quality, professional shipping materials, and we select the most suitable carrier based on destination, transit time and handling requirements. We monitor each package closely until delivery is completed.

To support a smooth international shipping process, we prepare the appropriate documents and shipping paperwork, including customs codes and export-related information if needed. In some cases we proactively contact you to confirm that your package has arrived safely, that the painting is in good condition, and to answer any questions you may have.

We typically call the phone number provided to Catawiki, and the call will be in English.

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