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This Directoire-period (1795–1799) clock, made of gilded bronze and sumptuously decorated, depicts a woman and her dog in an allegory of fidelity. The movement is set within an octagonal case, and surrounding the movement bezel is a second octagonal knurled bezel decorated with shell motifs.
This clock is flanked by two circular half-columns adorned with vine garlands and topped with a vase. At the top, the woman is shown seated on a fountain, while a dog sits beside her and water gushes from the fountain into a basin. The entire scene rests on a base supported by four spindle-shaped legs, with a frontal bas-relief depicting a basket of flowers, fruit, and pastoral motifs.
The depiction of the woman and her dog—a faithful companion—reflects the taste of the late 18th century, which was particularly inclined toward scenes of everyday life. Water, suggested by the fountain and the numerous seashells, is an essential element of life, and its presence is generally interpreted as a regenerative force.
A version of this clock featuring a spinner is in the collection of the Mobilier National in Paris.
This clock is in excellent condition, with its magnificent original mercury gilding.
The spindle of the spinner is missing.
The eight-day movement features a silk-thread suspension and strikes the hour and half-hour. It is in perfect working order.
Ref: Z0LXSC7YEE