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19th Century French Empire Clock, Japy Frères et Cie Movement

$47,800
£36,499.47
€43,741.45
CA$68,811.78
A$70,948.80
CHF 40,002.79
MX$908,097.08
NOK 461,226.88
SEK 482,416.24
DKK 327,079.63

About the Item

This magnificent mantel clock exemplifies the height of French Empire Revival design in the 19th century—where classical grandeur, refined materials, and superb craftsmanship converge to create a work of both artistry and precision. The clock stands as a figural masterpiece rooted in the Empire aesthetic. Its rectilinear case is meticulously crafted from deeply polished black Belgian marble (or slate), providing a dramatic, high-contrast stage for the bronze ornamentation. Surmounting the clock case is a masterfully patinated bronze figure of a seated muse—evoking Clio, the Muse of History, or Urania, the Muse of Astronomy—resting elegantly beside a lyre, symbolizing art, knowledge, and harmony. The architectural frieze of the case features remarkable embellishments, highlighted by a row of inset copper medallions depicting the classic Arethusa head type, inspired by ancient Greek coinage from Syracuse, Sicily (circa 400 BC). The base is anchored by bold, scrolled tiger-paw feet and a central lion’s mask mount, both foundational hallmarks of traditional Empire design. Fitted internally is its original, precision 8-day mechanical bell-strike movement stamped cleanly on the backplate with the official round trademark seal of Japy Frères et Cie, one of the most celebrated and highly collected 19th-century French clockmakers. Bearing the prestigious Grande Médaille d’Honneur from the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1855, this mechanism represents the firm’s highest standard of technical excellence. Balancing the austere gravity of black stone with the brilliant reflective weight of bronze, this exceptional timepiece captures the opulent spirit of the French Empire Revival. Traditionally displayed on a grand mantelpiece, such luxury clocks stood as both a technical triumph of 19th-century horology and a sculptural expression of classical refinement. Dimensions: Height: 25 inches, Width: 22.25 inches, Depth: 10 inches Excellent antique condition, beautifully preserved and consistent with age and use. The bronze elements retain their original warm luster and crisp structural definition. The black stone case is structurally sound, exhibiting only minor, localized chipping along the edges—honest and unobtrusive signatures of an authentic 19th-century polished stone timepiece. While the horological movement is entirely intact and presents beautifully, professional servicing is recommended following transit to ensure optimal mechanical performance. The clock weighs 115 pounds. The figurine is removable from the base.
  • Creator:
    Japy Frères (Clockmaker)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 25 in (63.5 cm)Width: 22.25 in (56.52 cm)Depth: 10 in (25.4 cm)
  • Style:
    Empire (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Belgian Black Marble,Bronze,Copper
  • Place of Origin:
    France
  • Period:
    Late 19th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1880s
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    North Palm Beach, FL
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU7517250429172

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