Antique French Louis XVI Sèvres-Style Porcelain & Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock — Signed Theodore B. Starr, New York, c. 1880–1900

A spectacular French mantel clock combining hand-painted Sèvres-style porcelain with elaborate ormolu (gilt bronze) mounts in the Louis XVI Revival taste — retailed by Theodore B. Starr, one of New York's most prestigious jewelry and decorative arts establishments of the Gilded Age. In the manner of the Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres; Napoleon III period, French, circa 1880–1900.

The white porcelain body is richly decorated with hand-painted pink roses, gold lattice trellis work, floral garlands, ribbon bows, and trophy-of-arms motifs throughout. Ormolu mounts of exceptional quality include flanking caryatid figures (draped female busts crowned with laurel), a monumental floral and cherub finial at the crown, lion's paw feet, swag chains, and flowing acanthus and laurel sprays.

The white enamel dial is signed "Theodore B. Starr / New York" and encircled by a sparkling paste crystal jewel bezel. The Metropolitan Museum of Art describes Starr as one of the "most prominent and influential jewelry firms in New York City during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries."

The octagonal porcelain base is painted with delicate floral wreaths and garland swags on gold-trimmed panels, raised on four ball feet with ormolu mounts.

MOVEMENT & MECHANICAL DETAILS

— Authentic French round-plate pendule de Paris movement, consistent with the finest Parisian makers of the period (Japy Frères, Vincenti, Marti)

— Blued steel springs — a hallmark of quality French movements; lesser movements used unblued steel

— Movement number 519 stamped on back plate

— Original winding key present

— Movement present and complete; recommend service by a qualified horologist before use

CASE & DECORATIVE DETAILS

— Hand-painted Sèvres-style porcelain: pink roses, gold lattice trellis, floral garlands

— Ormolu mounts: caryatid figures, floral & cherub finial, lion's paw feet, swag chains

— Signed enamel dial: Theodore B. Starr, New York

— Paste crystal jewel bezel surround

— Porcelain base with painted wreath and garland panels

Good antique condition consistent with age. Minor wear to gilt surfaces. Light crazing on porcelain consistent with period.

Approximate dimensions: 22" H × 11" W × 8" D (please confirm upon receipt).

Shipping: Fragile, high-value antique. We ship via specialty white-glove carriers only, fully insured. Local pickup in the Boston area is welcome.