A French Louis XVI ormolu sculptural mantel clock ‘War & Love’, François Vion, circa 1770.

Description

War and Love

This clock was designed and crafted by François Vion, who is known as one of the leading bronziers and designers of the Louis XVI period. Like many artists of this era, he was inspired by the art and architecture of Classical Antiquity. He was not a slavish imitator, however, but knew how to blend classical decorative elements into a light and elegant whole in his own unique way. Typical of his style, for example, are the elegant, elongated figures and putti in his designs. It is also interesting to note that a number of this artist’s designs have survived, including the design for this clock. A hallmark of Classicism is the use of personifications that represent something abstract. This applies here to the boys depicting Mars and Cupid. The theme of this clock is likely “Love Triumphs over War.” It was very important for the elite to demonstrate their knowledge of classical art and literature. After all, this set them apart from other segments of the population. One of the reasons why these types of mantel clocks became so popular was possibly because they allowed owners to showcase their erudition. In addition to the distinctive character that Vion imbued in his designs, it is his sense of proportion and attention to detail that make his work so exceptional. Finally, the high quality of the bronze and the exquisite finish of the gilding are hallmarks of this master. A clock and a work of art.

Arabic numerals

The 8.5-cm enamel dial has Arabic numerals for the hours and quarters. The beautifully pierced and engraved hands are made of gilt brass.

Anchor escapement

The movement is driven by two springbarrels and is of eight day duration. It is regulated by anchor escapement in combination with a silk suspended pendulum. The clock strikes the hours and half-hours by means of a countwheel on a bell.

Case

The movement and dial are mounted in a beautifully chiseled and gilt bronze case. It is surmounted by a pair of doves on clouds and a torch. These flanked by the youthful Mars and Cupid. The whole is mounted on a rectangular base with a central relief depicting a heart beneath a torch and a quiver. The base is lined with drapes connecting the four clawed feet. On the inside of the base is inscribed “VION.”