C1750 Rare and Exquisite Boulle Bracket Clock with Original Bracket
by Admyrauld Paris

To the top is a cherub torch bearer, seated on a globe, bringing enlightenment to the world. The clock is glazed to three sides allowing the pendulum to be seen swinging within the case. To the front door is an apron mount depicting a cherub with a basket of flowers. The door is locked to the right hand side with an original iron key. The floor of the case is veneered with chequered shell and brass to produce a trompe l’oeil effect. Beautiful and elaborate Boulle work also decorates the inside of the back door. The clock sits upon elaborate scrolled feet with goddess masks. The bracket is original and features goddess masks applied to the corners and contra-partie boulle work to the three sides.  

 The large dial is mounted with 12 individual blue on white enamel cartouches with foliate cast centre and the original finely cut blued steel hands.

The fine French movement is by Admyrauld of Paris, most likely the father Louis Henri Admyrauld who is listed in Tardy (with the spelling of Admyrault) as becoming master in 1724 and moving to rue de la Comedie-Francaise in Paris in 1748. It is of excellent quality, a five pillar movement with original verge escapement that runs nicely. It strikes a large and most likely original bell underneath the removable top of the case every hour and half. We have fully overhauled and tested the movement, it runs for 8 days. it is complete with probably the original iron key complete with a Sotheby's lot number from 1994. Click the video clip below to hear the bell and watch the clock running!

Condition of the clock case is very good, we have carefully cleaned both the Boulle marquetry and the ormolu mounts, the aim of conserving the clock rather than restoring to as new condition. There is some slight loss of brass inlay, mostly to the right hand shoulder, a few old, localised shell replacements and some loss of veneer to the inside of the back door, at the bottom. The bracket has some loss and lifting of inlay and some loss of shell, but considering the age of the piece is acceptable. Bronze mounts are complete with a good finish, there are a couple of cracks / breaks. Glass to the left hand side is original hand blown glass with bubbles and scratches. The front and right hand glass has been replaced at some time. The dial is excellent with no damage. A beautiful and rare clock to add to your collection.   

Admyrauld Paris mark engraved on the movement backplate

Complete with original pendulum, bell and keys. Full setting up instructions supplied if required.

Click the movie player below to see the this actual clock run -
(large file, may take a moment to start).