Figural mantel clock Empire - Ormolo - 1800-1850
03
days
03
hours
25
minutes
16
seconds
Current bid
€ 2,200
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Paula Martin-Calero Toro
Holds a degree in art history; over six years cataloguing and appraising antiques.
Estimate € 6,000 - € 7,000
29 other people are watching this object
 Bidder 1978 | €2,200 | |
|---|---|---|
 Bidder 7604 | €2,000 | |
| Bidder 7604 | €1,000 | |
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Empire bronze clock titled 'Love Letter', France ca. 1810, in gilt bronze with a white enamel dial, a mechanical 8‑day movement, a figurative pendulum, and dimensions 52 × 47 × 17 cm.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Empire 'Lettre d'Amour' clock – description
The Empire 'Lettre d'Amour' clock is an excellent example of fine French watchmaking from the early 19th century, characterized by a classic and symbolic design. Below is a detailed description of this masterpiece:
Dimensions: 52 x 47 x 17 cm
Style: Empire, neoclassical
Material: Gilded bronze and marble.
White enameled dial with Roman numerals
Watch: Mechanical watch with key winding.
Design and Symbolism
This clock depicts a sentimental scene with a seated classical female figure, presumably a mythological or allegorical representation of love and longing. She holds a medallion with the engraved portrait of a young man, symbolizing the cherished memory of a loved one.
Notable details
A dove beside the woman, symbol of love and fidelity.
A small writing desk with a goose feather and letters, emphasizing the act of writing and receiving love letters.
Winged sphinxes as supporting elements – a typical Empire motif that expresses strength and mysticism.
Reliefs on the foot of the clock featuring romantic and mythological scenes, emphasizing themes of love and art.
This clock is not only a functional timepiece but also an art object that embodies the aesthetics and emotional depth of the Empire period. A magnificent collector's item for enthusiasts of antique timepieces and neoclassical art.
The photos are part of the description. All our items can be viewed at Mora Antiques showroom in Bilzen - Hoeselt / Belgium.
Empire 'Lettre d'Amour' clock – description
The Empire 'Lettre d'Amour' clock is an excellent example of fine French watchmaking from the early 19th century, characterized by a classic and symbolic design. Below is a detailed description of this masterpiece:
Dimensions: 52 x 47 x 17 cm
Style: Empire, neoclassical
Material: Gilded bronze and marble.
White enameled dial with Roman numerals
Watch: Mechanical watch with key winding.
Design and Symbolism
This clock depicts a sentimental scene with a seated classical female figure, presumably a mythological or allegorical representation of love and longing. She holds a medallion with the engraved portrait of a young man, symbolizing the cherished memory of a loved one.
Notable details
A dove beside the woman, symbol of love and fidelity.
A small writing desk with a goose feather and letters, emphasizing the act of writing and receiving love letters.
Winged sphinxes as supporting elements – a typical Empire motif that expresses strength and mysticism.
Reliefs on the foot of the clock featuring romantic and mythological scenes, emphasizing themes of love and art.
This clock is not only a functional timepiece but also an art object that embodies the aesthetics and emotional depth of the Empire period. A magnificent collector's item for enthusiasts of antique timepieces and neoclassical art.
The photos are part of the description. All our items can be viewed at Mora Antiques showroom in Bilzen - Hoeselt / Belgium.
Details
Bronze type
Ormolo
Style subtype
Empire
Era
1400-1900
Nr of items
1
Clock type
Figural mantel clock
Model
Very well-known Empire clock 'Love Letter', France circa 1810.
Material
Bronze
Clock mechanism
Mechanical
Power Reserve
8 day movement
Striking
half hour, one bell
Style
Antique
Country of Origin
France
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of ageing
In working order
Yes
Height
52 cm
Width
47 cm
Depth
17 cm
Estimated period
1800-1850
Weight
10 kg
Winding Key
Yes
