Louis XIV Style Tortoiseshell Mantle Clock, c. 1850-60
French clocks of this period have not survived in any great numbers due to two world wars. The height on this clock is 18" and 5 1/2" deep. The clockworks is of week duration and stikes the hour and half on a silver bell. The dial is made of gilt bronze with 12 applied porcelain cartouches with cobalt blue numerals. The entire case is veneered with red tortoiseshell both inside and out, excluding the back. All of the gilt bronze adornments are original. One minor repair at the very top decoration would not be noticable unless it was mentioned. The pendulum is the traditional Louis XIV sun burst. On the sides of the clock are glass viewing panels, surrounded by gilt bronze roping. There is a little color loss of the red tortoiseshell on the right side due to sun bleaching; however the tortoiseshell is not damaged. Bear is mind that this is not an Italian reproduction. This clock is completely original and one of the most pristine I have owned. The clock runs and keeps accurate time and has just been fully restored. At a show you could expect to pay $4500+ and possibly not in as good condition as this. (Dealer's comments)
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