19th C Empire Style Bronze Winged Angel Riding a Chariot and Marble Clock Set

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This magnificent late 19th-century French Empire-style three-piece clock garniture is an extraordinary example of classical European decorative artistry, combining beautifully … Read more This magnificent late 19th-century French Empire-style three-piece clock garniture is an extraordinary example of classical European decorative artistry, combining beautifully sculpted gilt bronze, mythological symbolism, and richly veined green marble. Dating to the late 1800s, this impressive ensemble features a remarkable central chariot clock depicting a winged angel guiding a pair of spirited horses, accompanied by two elegant figural bronze candelabras. The entire composition embodies the grandeur, sophistication, and artistic refinement associated with the French Empire tradition.

The centerpiece is an elaborate gilt-bronze chariot clock, featuring a beautifully modeled winged angel standing triumphantly upon a classical two-wheeled chariot. The angelic figure, reminiscent of Cupid or a celestial messenger from Greco-Roman mythology, is depicted in a graceful yet commanding pose, holding delicate reins that extend toward two magnificent horses. The figure's finely sculpted wings, flowing hair, youthful features, and classical drapery demonstrate the remarkable attention to detail associated with traditional French bronze craftsmanship.

The horses are particularly striking, captured in a dramatic forward-moving composition with their front legs raised and their bodies beautifully extended. Their expressive faces, flowing manes, muscular forms, and intricately detailed harnesses create a wonderful impression of movement, energy, and vitality. The delicate reins connecting the angel to the horses enhance the theatrical quality of the scene, transforming the clock into an extraordinary sculptural representation of celestial movement and classical mythology.

The chariot itself incorporates the clock movement within its beautifully designed wheel, an ingenious artistic feature that combines mechanical functionality with ornamental sculpture. The circular clock dial features Roman numerals arranged around a contrasting light-colored chapter ring, while the visible central mechanism adds architectural depth and visual interest. The wheel-shaped clock case is beautifully integrated into the chariot, allowing the timepiece to become a natural part of the mythological composition.

The entire chariot rests upon an impressive rectangular base of richly veined dark green marble. The marble displays dramatic natural patterns in shades of deep forest green, charcoal, ivory, and soft gray, creating a sophisticated contrast against the luminous golden bronze figures. The substantial base is embellished with delicate gilt-bronze decorative moldings and an elaborate central ornamental mount featuring classical foliage, scrolling ribbons, and finely sculpted decorative elements.

Supporting the marble platform are elegant gilt-bronze feet, which elevate the composition and provide a refined architectural finishing touch.

Flanking the central clock are two magnificent matching gilt-bronze candelabras, each featuring an elegantly sculpted classical female figure. These graceful figures are dressed in flowing Greco-Roman garments, with delicately modeled facial features, beautifully arranged hair, and richly detailed drapery.

Each female figure supports three candleholders, arranged in a harmonious composition of gracefully curved bronze arms and decorative foliate scrollwork. The central candleholder rises above the figure's head, while the two additional candleholders extend outward on beautifully shaped branches. The finely cast candle cups and decorative drip pans display classical detailing, complementing the sculptural elegance of the supporting figures.

The candelabras are mounted upon tall, tapering gilt-bronze supports embellished with delicate floral ornamentation, classical motifs, and finely detailed decorative borders. Their architectural proportions create a wonderful sense of height and balance, beautifully framing the elaborate chariot clock positioned between them.

Each candelabrum rests upon a substantial square base of matching dark green veined marble, coordinating perfectly with the central clock platform. The marble bases are further enhanced by exquisite gilt-bronze ornamental mounts and decorative feet, reinforcing the visual unity of the complete ensemble.

The combination of richly veined green marble and warm golden bronze is especially impressive, recalling the luxurious decorative objects commissioned for distinguished European residences during the 19th century. The contrast between the dark natural stone and brilliant metallic surfaces creates a dramatic yet harmonious presentation.

The artistic inspiration reflects the enduring influence of ancient Greek and Roman mythology upon French Empire decorative arts. The winged charioteer, spirited horses, classical female figures, and ornamental bronze details evoke themes of divine beauty, triumph, movement, and celestial harmony.

Although dating to the late 19th century, the ensemble beautifully captures the grandeur of earlier French Empire design, demonstrating the continued popularity of neoclassical ornamentation throughout the period.

**Condition:** The garniture presents with an impressive antique appearance, displaying gentle signs of age and use consistent with its historical character. The gilt-bronze surfaces retain an attractive golden coloration with subtle variations in patina, while the green marble displays beautiful natural veining. The decorative elements remain visually prominent, although the clock's mechanical operation and the completeness of its components have not been independently verified.

Perfectly suited to an elegant fireplace mantel, grand entrance hall, distinguished library, or sophisticated drawing room, this remarkable three-piece garniture offers exceptional decorative presence.

With its magnificent angelic chariot, beautifully sculpted horses, classical figural candelabras, exquisite gilt-bronze detailing, and richly veined green marble bases, this extraordinary French Empire-style ensemble represents a captivating marriage of sculpture, horology, mythology, and timeless European elegance.

Correct the angel’s identity throughoutUse Seraphim Archangels consistently



Dimensions:
Clock 15.25 inches high x 18 inches wide x 5 inches deep
Candelabras 18 inches high x 7 inches wide x 4.5 inches deep See less