A French Empire ormolu sculptural mantel clock ‘Magic Lantern’, circa 1800.

Description

Magic Lantern or Laterna Magica

The magic lantern, or Laterna Magica, was likely invented by Christiaan Huygens in the mid-17th century. It was a type of early slide projector that allowed images to be enlarged and projected onto a surface. This must have seemed very wondrous to people of that time, which explains the name ‘magic lantern.’ The device was mainly used by storytellers, who used it to illustrate their tales. In this beautiful mantel clock, where Cupid stands in a dynamic pose and points toward the magic lantern, the device could symbolize “the illusion.” Is love or time the illusion? Whatever symbolism or lesson this model may represent, the exquisite craftsmanship and the figure’s lively pose make this clock a magnificent ‘object d’art.’

bezel

The 10-cm diameter dial has Roman numerals and is signed “Varcollier à Marseille.” The dial is set within an exceptional ormol bezel adorned with silver stars on a blue enamel background. The beautifully pierced and engraved hands are made of gilt brass.

Anchor escapement

The movement is driven by two spring barrels and has a duration of at least eight days. It is regulated by anchor escapement in combination silk suspended pendulum with a butterfly-shaped bob. The clock has countwheel half hour striking on a bell.

Ormolu

The movement is fitted in a ormolu case in the shape of a ‘laterna magica’ with butterflies in the upper corners. This magic lantern stands on the exquisnitely chiseled wings of Cupid. He has enameled eyes and a quiver and bow. He stands with a dynamic pose with on a matted ground with an acanthus profile border. The oval base is raised on bird’s feet and features a high relief of loving putti.