Dreweatts 1759
Lot 123
A FINE FRENCH LOUIS XV STYLE PATINATED AND GILT BRONZE MANTEL CLOCK 'PENDULE A L'ELEPHANT' THE DIAL INSCRIBED FOR MASSON, PARIS, THIRD QUARTER OF THE 19th CENTURYThe circular eight-day two train bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by disc bob pendulum incorporating Brocot type regulation to suspension, the backplate stamped with A.C within a circle over serial number 2453 to upper left, JAPY FRERES Et CIE, G'DE MED, D'HONNEUR roundel to centre and further number 5 2 to lower edge, the 4.25 inch slightly convex circular white enamel Roman numeral dial inscribed Masson, AParis to centre and with generous Arabic five minutes beyond the minute track, the scroll-pierced gilt brass hands set behind hinged convex glazed guilloche scroll cast bezel, the case modelled in the manner of Jean-Joseph de Saint Germain or Jacques Caffieri with a gilt figure of Cupid holding aloft his bow set on billowing clouds surmounting the patinated bronze drum housing the movement incorporating hinged glazed rear cover matching that of the front and gilt flowering foliage to sides, over support modelled as a stylised elephant with its trunk aloft fitted with rococo scroll cradle for the movement on its back incorporating gilt saddle strap around its waist, standing on a naturalistically cast gilt base incorporating large flowerheads and rocaille scrollwork.41cm (16.25ins) high, 31cm (12.25ins) wide, 18cm (7ins) deep. The distinctive and particularly attractive design of the current lot is closely based upon mid 18th century models by the Bronziers Jean-Joseph de Saint Germain (1719-87) and Jacques Caffieri (1678-1755). The signature for 'Masson, AParis' is almost certainly a 'decorative' addition no doubt intended to add a further degree of visual authenticity to the clock (by giving impression that the clock was possibly made by Denis Masson a leading Parisian clockmaker active 1744-78). An apparently identical example (albeit with a signature for Pierre Lieurtier, Paris) was sold at Christies, New York sale of The Collection of David and Peggy Rockefeller: English and European Furniture, Ceramics and Decorations, Part II 10th May 2018 (lot 663) for $47,500.Condition Report: Movement appears complete and original. The going train will 'beat' the strike train is operational however is sounding continuously when released hence there is a problem with the gathering of the rack (requires adjustment or possibly a new gathering pallet - either way a routine repair for an experienced clockmaker). The dial is in very fine condition with no visible chips or cracks other than a tiny 'gnats bite' adjacent to the regulation square above the XII numeral. The case is in fine condition with no apparent faults. The elephant has had some slight water-based iron-red wash highlights applied as an attempt to soften the surface sheen a little; these can easily be rubbed-off revealing medium pewter/brown patination which is best described as being a little thin in places. The guilloche scroll cast bezel has received similar attention but this time to deaden some edge rubbing to the patination.Clock is complete with pendulum and winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer