Sometimes we find something that is just very rare, good and pretty. This small ormolu Louis XV bracket clock has all these characteristics. The piece originates from a period when gilt bronze clocks were made in very small numbers. And those few clocks that were made were either ‘Cartels’ or mantel clocks making this object even rarer. French bracket clocks like this are usually executed with wooden cases veneered with Boulle work. Besides the rarity this clock is fine example of the Louis XV period or Rococo which is known for its organic naturalistic forms. And while the shape is exuberant, the small dimensions of the clock make these not too overpowering, and therefore it is still easy to fit it into many types of interiors. Finally, for clock enthusiasts like us it is also a treat to look at the beautifully made movement, hands and dial. Aspects that become apparent when taking a closer look and that will amaze time after time, showing the great skill of the maker.

The 10.5-cm enamel dial has blue Roman numerals for the hours and Arabic numerals for the five-minute indication. The centre is signed Julien Leroy A Paris. The gilt brass hands are finally pierced and engraved.

The movement has flat bottomed plates which are connected with knopped pillars. The back plate is identically signed. The movement is driven by two spring barrels and has a duration of ten days. It is regulated by a small anchor escapement in combination with a silk suspended pendulum. The clock has half hour striking by means of a numbered countwheel.

The ormolu case is surmounted by a putto holding a trident. Below there is a organically shaped surround for the dial. The lenticle is flanked by two dolphins under which the scrolling feet start. The clock is placed on an open wall bracket consisting of scrolls and branch like parts in between which there is a dragon.

A very rare small French Louis XV ormolu bracket clock, Leroy A Paris, circa 1745

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