French Gilt Bronze Cartel Clock Signed Le Nepveu, Paris
A large and alluring French cartel clock dating to the second half of the 19th century. The cartel clock evolved in the mid-1700s when the French led the way in breaking from the tradition of linear, architecturally influenced cases. Instead, they crafted their wall clocks in more artistic and fluid forms. Maintaining, of course, their penchant for elaborate ornamentation and horological expertise. This beautiful example of gilt bronze features a round case embellished with decorative beading and centered by laurel boughs and sculpted ribbon castings. Artfully designed to hang from more of the cast ribbon accented with cast roping and tassels.
Keeping the time within this beautiful clock is an 8-day movement that marks the hour and half-hour with a bright bell strike. Displaying the time on an 8″ convex porcelain dial with painted Arabic numerals and fancy gilt hands. The dial is signed “Le Nepveu, Paris.” And finally, this exceptional clock bears a full restoration and a one-year warranty.
43″ High x 16″ Wide x 5″ Deep
Circa 1860