An exceptionally refined French ormolu mantel clock in the Louis XVI Revival style, attributed to the celebrated Parisian bronze founder Ferdinand Barbedienne. The clock was most likely produced during the Second Empire (Napoléon III) period, circa 1852-1870, when richly cast neoclassical bronze furnishings of this quality were among the finest luxury productions of Paris.
The circular white enamel dial is framed by a finely cast gilt-bronze bezel and displays Roman hour numerals, an outer Arabic minute track, and pierced gilt-metal hands. The lower glazed section reveals an elaborate sun-mask pendulum, creating a particularly striking visual effect within the open architectural structure.
The attribution to Ferdinand Barbedienne is based upon close comparison with documented examples of the identical model retaining the original signed enamel dial “F. Barbedienne, Paris.” The present clock shares the same architectural bronze case, decorative arrangement, proportions, urn finial, draped bezel, bevelled glazed construction, fluted columns, sun-mask pendulum, dial layout, and hand design. On the present example, the signature appears to have worn away over time, although its original position corresponds precisely with the documented signed examples. The attribution should therefore be regarded as well supported, although not definitively confirmed by a surviving maker’s signature.
The circular brass movement is stamped “Ed. Minart” and numbered 6199. Ed. Minart is documented as a supplier of movements used in high-quality French mantel clocks, including examples associated with Ferdinand Barbedienne. The clock is fitted with an eight-day movement striking the hours and half-hours on a bell.
The movement has been tested over a twenty-four-hour period and both the timekeeping and striking functions operated correctly. After testing, the clock was stopped for storage and display.
The case retains a very attractive historic gilt surface, with well-preserved chasing and only natural age-related toning, minor darkening, and light wear. The four thick bevelled glass panels appear original and give the clock an elegant, jewel-like architectural presence.
A rare and highly decorative example of late nineteenth-century French bronze production, combining sculptural quality, fine mechanical workmanship, and a strong attribution to one of the most important Parisian bronze manufacturers of the period.
Details:
• Maker: Attributed to Ferdinand Barbedienne
• Movement: Ed. Minart, numbered 6199
• Origin: Paris, France
• Dimensions: H: 44 cm (17 1/3 in) × W: 22 cm (8 2/3 in) × D: 15 cm (5 7/8 in)
• Weight: 7.4 kg
Condition:
The clock is in very good antique condition, consistent with age. The ormolu case remains structurally sound and the base, feet, decorative friezes, and principal bronze elements are well preserved, without significant losses. The historic gilt surface displays natural age-related wear, minor darkening, and areas of patination, but retains a strong and attractive overall appearance.
All four thick bevelled glass panels appear original. The side and front panels are generally well preserved. The rear glass has one light surface scratch and exhibits slight movement within its metal retaining frame due to a small gap between the internal supports. The glass remains stable when the clock is standing and this does not affect its display.
The enamel dial remains visually attractive, with fine hairline cracks visible near the 45-minute and 60-minute positions, together with minor age-related surface wear. The convex front glass appears original and is in good condition.
The front left upper corner, adjacent to one of the acorn finials, displays a small historic deformation and is slightly bent in comparison with the other corners. Evidence of an old soldered repair is visible on the hammer which strikes the bell, indicating a previous mechanical intervention.
The movement was found to be operational at the time of cataloguing. As is customary with antique clocks, it is sold as a collector’s item, and no guarantee is offered regarding future performance or timekeeping accuracy. Routine adjustment or servicing may be required following transportation or installation. (The photographs form an integral part of the description.)
A well-placed antique does more than decorate a room - it gives it authorship. Against a contemporary interior, older objects introduce texture, balance and a sense of permanence that cannot be replicated by newly made pieces alone.
This is the principle behind the LÜRON selection. We look for works that carry historical character with ease, and that feel as convincing in a Paris apartment as they do in a more modern architectural setting.
