An important French ormolu (mercury gilt bronze) and Verde Antico marble mantel clock 'Study of astronomy' (French: L'etude d'Astronomie) preserved in excellent condition. The bronzes after design executed in 1809 by Jean-André Reiche, famous Parisian bronze-maker. France, Empire period, early 19th century, about 1810-15. Very rare, top quality model, notice quality of casting and chiseling! Finely executed fire-gilt bronze case with shiny and matt surfaces, centrally located movement above the library, on the right side an astrolabe with moving circles standing on the Greek column. On the left the personification of astronomy, muse Urania, standing like an antique statue with crossed legs, reading the book. Rectangular verde antico marble base surrounded by gilt bronze frame with acanthus leaves, standing on four legs. Dimensions: height - 34,6 cm; width - 29,1 cm; depth - 11,5 cm. French, Parisian, two train movement of good technical quality, unsigned. The clock comes with a pendulum and winding key. White enamel dial with black Roman numerals for hours. Blue-oxidized steel hands. Jean-André Reiche is one of the most important Parisian bronze makers of the Empire period, he was originally from Leipzig and settled in Paris during the reign of Louis XVI, becoming a master bronzier in June 1785. His workshop moved to the rue Notre-Dame-de-Nazareth and his renown immediately grew. At first designated as a bronzier and marble specialist, during the Empire he was listed as a “marchand-fabricant de bronzes”. He died on March 18, 1817, leaving his business to his son Jean Reiche, who continued to run it successfully during the Restoration period. Urania, which is also written as “Ourania,” in Greek mythology, is one of the 9 Muses. The daughter of Zeus and Mnemosyne, Urania is the the Muse of astronomy and writings about astronomy. As such, she is often depicted holding a globe while pointing at it with her rod. She also often wears a cloak that has been embroidered with many stars. Bibliography: - design by Jean-André Reich, 1809, Bibliothèque nationale; - Elke Niehüser, “Die Französische Bronzeuhr”, 1997, p. 92 References - last pictures, similar clocks offered by major auction houses or dealers. Conditions report: case in excellent condition, no missing parts, very well preserved. Some age- and use-related wear, very clean. Gilding on bronzes in amazing condition considering the age, with some wear on sides. Small chip to the stone on front top-edge and probably restored chip, both shown on pictures. Dial in very good condition, with tiny damages around the right winding hole. Movement in working order, recently overhauled by a clock-master. Movement with changed suspension or of the later date. Check pictures for details. Worldwide delivery with online tracking. Shipping by courier only!!! Delivery to the Middle East and Israel is temporary impossible!