LEPINE À PARIS

Height 38 cm

/ 15.0 in

Width 34 cm

/ 13.4 in

Length 9 cm

/ 3.54 in

MC090

Description

A fine French white marble and gilt bronze mantel clock, designed in the Neoclassical taste and distinguished by its sculptural female figure, architectural base, and refined decorative mounts. The clock is centred by a circular white enamel dial, signed “Lépine à Paris,” with Roman numerals, outer minute track, finely pierced gilt hands, and twin winding apertures. The dial is framed by a gilt bronze beaded bezel and is set into a carved marble rockwork body, creating a harmonious balance between sculpture and horology.

Above the dial sits a carved female figure in classical form, posed gracefully upon draped rockwork. Her calm expression, idealised features, and softly modelled form reflect the influence of antique sculpture, which strongly shaped French decorative arts from the late 18th century onward. The subject may be read as an allegorical figure, possibly associated with beauty, the arts, nature, or classical mythology, in keeping with the Neoclassical taste for symbolic and poetic compositions.

The lower section is formed as a substantial white marble plinth with fluted side elements, gilt bronze beaded borders, and gilt bronze feet. To the front is a finely cast gilt bronze relief panel depicting putti in a musical or allegorical scene, adding narrative charm and decorative richness to the otherwise restrained marble structure. The contrast between the pale marble and the warm gilded bronze mounts gives the clock an elegant and luxurious appearance.

Historically, marble figural mantel clocks of this type were highly fashionable in France during the late Louis XVI and early Empire periods. They were designed not simply as timepieces, but as refined decorative objects intended for display in sophisticated interiors. The use of classical female figures, putti, beaded borders, and relief decoration reflects the broader Neoclassical revival, when artists and designers looked to ancient Greece and Rome for inspiration in sculpture, architecture, and ornament.

The signature of Lépine à Paris further enhances the historical interest of the piece. Jean-Antoine Lépine was one of the most celebrated French clockmakers of the 18th century, known for technical innovation and refined Parisian production. Clocks bearing the Lépine name are associated with the high standards of French horology and the luxury market of the period.

This example presents as an elegant and highly decorative French mantel clock, combining a signed enamel dial, carved white marble sculpture, gilt bronze mounts, and classical allegorical decoration. Its refined proportions and sculptural quality make it suitable for an antique clock collection, a formal interior, or a professional dealer’s gallery presentation.

Material

Period

Country of Origin

Height 38 cm

/ 15.0 in

Width 34 cm

/ 13.4 in

Length 9 cm

/ 3.54 in

Photo gallery

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