sculptural mantel clock,

sculptural mantel clock,

Superb gilt and patinated bronze sculptural mantel clock, "young Arab rider on mule", by Coeur & fils à Paris, Directoire, circa 1795-1800. One of the clocks dedicated to the theme of the “noble Savage” or "au bon Sauvage". A superb made sculptural clock, round enamel dial with Roman and Arabic numerals and Directoire style steel hands for the hours and minutes. The eight day movement with anchor escapement, silk thread suspension, striking on the hour and half hours with outside count wheel. A handsome young Arab is riding and seated on a mule. The Arab with enamel eyes is oriental dressed, seated on the mule he is holding in one hand the horsecheck and one hand in the hip. The mule is rich decorated with gilt brass mounts. The clock drum, mule and figure upon a rectangular base with, decorated on the front and both sides with a collection of gilt ornaments related to love symbolic: courting pigeons, garlands, flowers, putti. The clock is signed on the dial and made by Coeur fils à Paris. Tardy specifies ‘Rue St Honoré 1812-1817’. Height 40 cm; width 27 cm; depth 12,5 cm. Price SOLD. Lit.: Elke Niehüser, “Die Französische Bronzeuhr", pag. 154.