Ormolu and Sèvres Porcelain Clock by Achille Brocot ~ French - Circa 1870 ~ ~~ Excellent condition, fully overhauled ~~ A magnificent and exceptionally decorative antique French clock by the renowned maker Achille Brocot, beautifully modelled in ormolu (finely gilded bronze) and mounted with exquisite Sèvres style porcelain in a rich Rose Pompadour pink ground.

The architectural case is particularly impressive, the clock supported upon a broad platform and richly ornamented with bold scrolling acanthus, floral garlands and finely modelled classical motifs. Large sweeping ormolu scrolls rise around the dial, their crisp modelling and beautifully finished gilding contrasting wonderfully with the vibrant pink porcelain.

To the top is a magnificent porcelain urn, mounted in ormolu with scrolling handles, finely modelled floral ornament and an elaborate finial. To its centre is a delicately painted portrait of an elegant 18th-century lady, probably Madame de Pompadour, celebrated mistress of Louis XV and great patron of the decorative arts. The portrait is framed in gilt with a finely painted cloisonné effect and surrounded by finely painted floral and gilt decoration. To the top is an exquisitely painted exotic bird also within a gilt reserve.

The clock is flanked by two delightful circular porcelain orbs, each exquisitely painted with a cherub amongst delicate scrolling ornament, and mounted within finely cast ormolu frames surmounted by classical finials.

Of particular note is the beautiful porcelain dial. The Rose Pompadour pink centre is delicately painted with Cupid, bow and arrow in hand, surrounded by white porcelain cartouche reserves with finely painted blue Roman numerals. Applied jewelled half-hour markers and elaborate gilt decoration complete this exceptionally attractive dial. A fine pair of pierced gilt-brass hands indicate the time.

The combination of brilliant ormolu and richly coloured porcelain is particularly successful, producing a clock of great presence while retaining the delicacy and refinement associated with the finest French decorative arts. The clock stands upon its shaped giltwood and gesso base, newly covered in rich fabric to complement the deep Rose Pompadour porcelain and original gilding. Please note that this style of clock does not have a glass bezel or a rear door to the case.

The French movement is by the celebrated Achille Brocot, one of the most important members of the renowned Brocot dynasty of Parisian clockmakers. Achille Brocot was Treasurer of La Société des Horlogers in Paris and was awarded a First Class Medal at the Paris Exhibition of 1855. A gifted and influential horological innovator, he worked in partnership with Jean-Baptiste Delettrez from 1851 until his death in 1878. The movement is of superb quality and is in excellent, clean and running condition, having been fully overhauled by our clockmaker. It is fitted with a dead-beat escapement and rack striking, and retains its original pendulum. The movement runs for eight days and strikes the hours and half-hours on a bell. We have a video of the clock, please click the link below.

Condition of the case is excellent, the original gilding beautifully clean and bright, with only slight wear to the high points through handling. The porcelain is also in excellent condition, the delicate overglaze gilt decoration remarkably well preserved. There are three or four of the small applied porcelain ‘jewels’ missing. We have replaced the fabric covering to the gesso base with fresh fabric, carefully chosen to complement the clock.

Complete with original pendulum, bell and a suitable key. 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).