19th-Century French Bernoux Paris Rouge Marble & Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock, C. 1875

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An impressive late-19th-century French mantel clock crafted in richly veined rouge marble and ornamented with gilt and patinated bronze mounts. … Read more An impressive late-19th-century French mantel clock crafted in richly veined rouge marble and ornamented with gilt and patinated bronze mounts. Dating to approximately 1870–1885, the clock houses a period movement stamped “BERNOUX / PARIS / BREVETÉ” and numbered 4362.

The substantial architectural case measures approximately 20 inches wide and features beautifully figured deep red marble accented by elaborate gilt-bronze ornamentation. Two inset patinated bronze relief panels depicting classical scenes flank the central dial, creating a striking contrast against the rouge marble. The case rests upon ornate gilt-bronze paw feet and is further embellished with scrolling foliate mounts across the lower facade.

At center is an especially handsome gilt-bronze dial with applied Roman numerals, an intricately decorated center and a richly patterned bezel. Behind the case is a traditional French mechanical movement with bell strike, accessed through the original circular rear door.

Bernoux was active in the Paris luxury decorative-arts trade during the latter half of the 19th century, with surviving period clocks and movements bearing the Bernoux Paris / Breveté mark appearing in important collections and at major international auction houses. The clearly stamped and numbered movement provides particularly desirable documentation for this example.

A wonderfully decorative piece of 19th-century French horology, combining the dramatic color and natural variation of rouge marble with classical bronze ornament and the sculptural proportions characteristic of the period. At approximately 20 inches wide, it has considerable presence on a mantel, console, library cabinet or commode. See less