The pendulum clock
was first invented in 1653 by Christiaan Huygens, a noted Dutch
mathematician. Not only did the invention bring about a scientific
revolution, but had such profound impact on timekeeping that it has
become known as a definitive period in clock making, in both, a
functional and decorative sense. Today, one can find two distinct styles
of French clocks. One which is known as "Boulle" and incorporates
inlays of grass, ivory and porcelain surrounded by a tortoise shell, and
the other, called "Religieuse", which features pewter and brass
overlays that are set within ebony veneers that emerge from dark oak.
The following are some of the antique clocks which feature elaborate designs which celebrate the opulence of both kings such as, King Louis XIV and the lifestyles of wealthy aristocrats.
Clock with pedestal (Pendule Sur Gaine), ca. 1690italy
In 1670, Isaac II Thuret, a French clockmaker to King Louis XIV, designed an exquisite pendulum clock which featured a dial that indicated the hours, minutes and seconds. The clock is featured in the collection of Huygens personal possessions at the Museum of Boerhaave in Leiden. Another aspect which makes this particular clock with pedestal unique is that it is also considered as the oldest preserved astronomical regulator.
The Dance of Time, Three Nymphs Supporting a Clock- Paris, 1788
Designed by renowned Parisian clockmaker Jean-Baptiste Lepaute, this clock features young dancing nymphs dressed in flowing drapery and trussed hair, and is one of the most captivating clocks in the world. Yet the maker, Clodion, has also rendered these beautiful figures with lush realism, and has been able to create a magnificent piece of art with balancing each of the four nymphs on one foot.
Louis XVI Style Gilt-Bronze Champlevé Enamel Mantel Clock (c. 1870)
Designed by the French company Leroy Et Fils, this magnificent gilt-bronze mantel clock is 20.08 inches high, 10.63 inches wide, and 8.66 inches deep. The gilt-bronze and champlevé enamel clock is a fine design and features an arched case along with an outset of bulbous columns along the angles.
The clock is surmounted by a drum top and a pierced scroll, along with a ball finial. Both the front and sides of this clock are finely painted on with neo-classical scenes of figures in an architectural setting. The clock has an enameled chapter ring with Roman numerals, and a twin barrelled, eight-day-movement bell. For a little bit of history, the clock maker Leroy Et Fils was founded by Bazile Charles Leroy in 1789, who was the clockmaker for the Emperor Napoleon, and the Dukes of Orleans, Bourbon, and even Princess Pauline.
Antique Mantle Clock in the Louis XVI Manner (c. 1870 France)
This antique mantle clock is 14.96 inches high, 12.20 inches wide and 5.91 inches deep. The clock is constructed with ormolu and adorned with 'jewelled' Sevres style porcelain with a rose ground. The bell is housed with a shaped and floral spandrel braced case and is supported on toupie feet, with a Roman style urn atop.
So, there you have it, the best of the best from French clockmakers.
The following are some of the antique clocks which feature elaborate designs which celebrate the opulence of both kings such as, King Louis XIV and the lifestyles of wealthy aristocrats.
Clock with pedestal (Pendule Sur Gaine), ca. 1690italy
In 1670, Isaac II Thuret, a French clockmaker to King Louis XIV, designed an exquisite pendulum clock which featured a dial that indicated the hours, minutes and seconds. The clock is featured in the collection of Huygens personal possessions at the Museum of Boerhaave in Leiden. Another aspect which makes this particular clock with pedestal unique is that it is also considered as the oldest preserved astronomical regulator.
The Dance of Time, Three Nymphs Supporting a Clock- Paris, 1788
Designed by renowned Parisian clockmaker Jean-Baptiste Lepaute, this clock features young dancing nymphs dressed in flowing drapery and trussed hair, and is one of the most captivating clocks in the world. Yet the maker, Clodion, has also rendered these beautiful figures with lush realism, and has been able to create a magnificent piece of art with balancing each of the four nymphs on one foot.
Louis XVI Style Gilt-Bronze Champlevé Enamel Mantel Clock (c. 1870)
Designed by the French company Leroy Et Fils, this magnificent gilt-bronze mantel clock is 20.08 inches high, 10.63 inches wide, and 8.66 inches deep. The gilt-bronze and champlevé enamel clock is a fine design and features an arched case along with an outset of bulbous columns along the angles.
The clock is surmounted by a drum top and a pierced scroll, along with a ball finial. Both the front and sides of this clock are finely painted on with neo-classical scenes of figures in an architectural setting. The clock has an enameled chapter ring with Roman numerals, and a twin barrelled, eight-day-movement bell. For a little bit of history, the clock maker Leroy Et Fils was founded by Bazile Charles Leroy in 1789, who was the clockmaker for the Emperor Napoleon, and the Dukes of Orleans, Bourbon, and even Princess Pauline.
Antique Mantle Clock in the Louis XVI Manner (c. 1870 France)
This antique mantle clock is 14.96 inches high, 12.20 inches wide and 5.91 inches deep. The clock is constructed with ormolu and adorned with 'jewelled' Sevres style porcelain with a rose ground. The bell is housed with a shaped and floral spandrel braced case and is supported on toupie feet, with a Roman style urn atop.
So, there you have it, the best of the best from French clockmakers.
For more information please visit website http://www.melsclocks.com/
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