Elysian Serenade: French Empire Bronze Clock with Orpheus and Eurydice Figurines, circa 1810
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Immerse yourself in the opulence of the early 19th century with our exquisite French Empire clock—a true masterpiece of craftsmanship and elegance. Crafted from original 24-carat fire-gilded bronze, this table/mantel clock exudes luxury and sophistication, becoming a captivating focal point in any space.
Features:
Gilded Bronze Construction: Crafted from original 24-carat fire-gilded bronze, this clock boasts exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
Professionally Restored: Meticulously cleaned and checked by professional clockmakers, ensuring its pristine condition and functionality.
8-Day Spring-Driven Movement: Equipped with an 8-day spring-driven movement with anchor escapement and silk suspended pendulum, offering reliable timekeeping and striking mechanism.
Bell Striking Mechanism: Strikes the half hours and full hours on a bell with count wheel striking, adding a touch of traditional charm.
Complete Set: Includes its pendulum, re-winding key, and bell, preserving authenticity and historical value.
Bronze and Enamel Dial: The dial features a combination of bronze and enamel, richly decorated to complement the clock's luxurious design.
Signed Dial: Bears the signature of renowned French clockmaker Mazuel (à Paris), attesting to its prestigious origins.
Richly Decorated Base: Rests on a rectangular base adorned with a captivating relief of four dancing Puttis carrying a fruit basket, characteristic of the Empire style.
Intricate Figurines: Features Orpheus and Eurydice atop the base, showcasing remarkable attention to detail and artistry.
Symbolism: The figurines depict Orpheus playing his lyre and Eurydice holding grapes, symbolizing their tragic love story from Greek mythology.
Orpheus And Eurydice: In Greek mythology, Orpheus, the son of King Oiagros of Thrace, possessed the gift of singing inherited from his mother, Calliope. Apollo bestowed upon him a lyre, whose divine melodies moved all beings, animate and inanimate alike. Orpheus's heart found solace in the arms of Eurydice, a nymph whose beauty rivaled the divine. However, their bliss was short-lived, for tragedy befell them when Eurydice succumbed to the venomous bite of a viper. Orpheus, consumed by grief, sang a lamentation that stirred the very essence of nature, causing even the stones to weep.
Determined to reclaim his beloved from the realm of the dead, Orpheus ventured into the Underworld, where he charmed its guardians with his celestial melodies. Moved by his music, they granted him permission to lead Eurydice back to the land of the living on one condition—he must not gaze upon her until they reached the surface. Yet, consumed by doubt and longing, Orpheus cast a furtive glance backward, breaking the pact and condemning Eurydice to remain in the realm of shadows.
Dimensions: Measures approximately 52 cm high, 40 cm wide, and 15 cm deep (21 inches high, 16 inches wide, 6 inches deep).
Global Shipping: Shipped worldwide with a tracking number and insurance, ensuring safe and secure delivery. Experience the timeless allure of this French Empire bronze clock—a poignant reminder of love's enduring power and the eternal melody of the human heart.
