CA0242 French Empire mantel clock by Basile Charles Le Roy

Early 19th century French Empire period 'La Liseuse' or 'La Lectura' gilt bronze ormolu and marble mantel clock. Surmounted by a standing figure of a young woman reading a book leaning on a bookcase, after an original model by Jean-André Reiche (1752-1817). A successful and popular theme, this depiction of a woman reading epitomised the ideals of the enlightment, of learning and knowledge visually rienforced by the armillary sphere placed on a classical column - very Empire. Unusual white marble base. White enamel dial signed 'Le Roy Hr de Madame à Paris' for the horologer Basile Charles Le Roy. Based in his workshop in the Palais Royale he was one of the most important central figures of the Le Roy dynasty. Madame is a reference to Her Imperial Highness Letizia Bonaparte, 'Madame Mère', the mother of the Emperor Napoleon. This form of signature dates this clock to between 1805 to 1817. Silk suspension movement stamped 'L:431'. Interesting version of a popular clock from an important workshop. France, Paris, circa 1810.

For a very similar version of this clock see: 
'Encyclopedie de La Pendule Francaise' by Pierre Kjellberg, Editions de l'Amateur, Paris, 1997, p.395.
'Die Franzosische Bronzeuhr' Elke Niehuser, p.232 

Provenance: Sold Sotheby's Amsterdam Furniture and Decorative Arts 16th June 2009 lot 227.

H 33cm x W 29cm x D 12cm