A small French Empire gilt and patinated bronze cartel clock, circa 1800.

Description

Cartel

French wall clocks that are more or less an ornament are called ‘cartel’ clocks. During the Louis XV or Rococo period, these clocks have C- and S-scrolls. In the subsequent Louis XVI period, this type of clock was often adorned with classical elements like the ‘urn,’ ‘garland,’ and ‘lion mask’. In the Empire period, this type of wall clock became much less common. Most cartels from this period are annular in shape and are also called ‘Oeil du Boeuf’ or Bull’s Eye. Very few, however, have this elegant ‘shield shape’. Therefore, this small clock is not only attractive but also very rare.

The dial

The 8-cm enamel dial has Roman numerals and Arabic numerals for the quarter indication. The engraved and pierced hands are made of gilt brass.

Cartel d’alcove

The typical French movement is driven by a spring barrel and a duration of eight days. This means that the clock needs to be wound once a week. It is being regulated by anchor escapement in combination with a silk suspended pendulum. It is likely that this clock was meant for the sleeping quarters because of its small dimensions and the omission of striking work. These bedroom clocks are called ‘cartel d’alcove’.

bronze

The shield shaped case is made of patinated bronze and is surmounted by a suspension ring. It is lined with a gilt pearl rim and the case itself has classical gilt mounts.