19th Century Mantel Clock “Astronomy”, France circa 1830

France
Bronze
Charles X around 1830

Dimensions: H x W x D: 48 x 19 x 10 cm

Description:
Unusual and beautifully crafted bronze mantel clock dedicated entirely to the theme of astronomy.

Dark patinated clockwork case in the form of a stele with a slightly protruding base section bordered by a palmette frieze.
Below the dial we see four putti in bas-relief, who are busy mapping the starry sky around a celestial globe.
Their tools such as compasses, rulers and protractors can also be found at the top as the crown of the clock. The neat workmanship of the bronze can be seen here, for example, in the fine hatching of the celestial globe, which can be clearly seen in one of the photos.
The bronzes were made by the Parisian bronzier Leclere, whose workshop is documented in the Rue Vieille Tacherie around 1850. His signature can be found not only on the bezel on the back, but also on other bronze parts and on the back of the dial. There is also an engraved date “1829”.

The heart of the clock is a French pendulum movement with a 14-day power reserve, anchor escapement, locking disc striking mechanism and thread suspension of the pendulum. The silver-plated dial is typical of the era. The black numerals and Breguet hands ensure that the time is easy to read.

Condition:
Beautiful and authentic condition with slight signs of age in the patination and on the silvering of the dial. The movement has been completely dismantled and cleaned from top to bottom. It runs absolutely reliably and accurately.