"Bacchante" clock signed BAILLY in Paris, from the Empire period, made of bronze and Carrara marble

Important Empire-style clock in gilded bronze and marble, signed “Bailly à Paris” – early 19th century
An elegant and spectacular Empire-style clock in finely chased and mercury-gilded bronze, resting on a white marble base. The circular white enamel dial, signed “Bailly à Paris,” features Roman numerals for the hours and delicate hands.
It is set within a richly decorated frame featuring pearls and foliage motifs. The high-quality movement features an anchor escapement with a silk-thread suspension—a traditional system widely used until the mid-19th century for its precision and stability in the face of climatic variations.
It strikes the hours and half-hours on a bell.
The particularly refined composition is characteristic of the Neoclassical taste and the Empire style: a female figure, a Bacchante, in gilded bronze with an antique finish, is elegantly positioned at the top of the dial in an expressive pose; on either side, two patinated bronze sphinxes rest on architectural marble pedestals, evoking the fascination with ancient Egypt that was very much in vogue during the Empire; the ensemble is enriched with abundant ornamentation: openwork scrollwork, rosettes, masks, an animal frieze, and a sun pendant.
This type of composition is characteristic of the work of the great Parisian bronze casters of the early 19th century, who often collaborated with the finest clockmakers.
The signature “Bailly à Paris” refers to one of the most important Parisian clockmakers of the Napoleonic era, a supplier to the Imperial Garde-Meuble and clockmaker to Their Imperial and Royal Majesties, renowned for the quality and precision of his movements.
Made in Paris, Empire period, circa 1810–1820.
Materials: gilded and patinated bronze, white Carrara marble, enameled dial
Movement: eight-day, anchor escapement, silk-thread suspension, bell chime
Condition: very good condition, original gilding

Ref: WNEI9SCJSB