C.1845, French, Le Roy, Paris, 2-Train Skeleton Clock, in very good original condition.

C.1845, French, Le Roy, Paris, 2-Train Skeleton Clock, in very good original condition. The only item that keeps this from being excellent is a cracked bell that has been mended with crazy glue (still rings but a bit dull). The French were the first to lay out their large tower clock with horizontal frames, and this clock was inspired by that design. A clock by Robert with the same train layout may be seen in Royer-Collard's book titled Skeleton Clocks, page 72, figure 4-13. Also see Sotheby's, New York, June 28, 1993, lot 187 for "sister" to this lot. The "double deck" design used in this clock is the most common form seen in a French striking skeleton. The movement employs a dead beat escapement, a gridiron pendulum and an articulated strike hammer that rings the bell from the rear. The dial is signed as in the headline and the clock is running. Height 20"