Important French Empire 'Garde à Vous' Mantel Clock
Important early 19th century French Empire Gilt ormolu and patinated bronze clock on a marbre vert base. A famous model at the time it was referred to as as the 'Garde a Vous' clock. It was referenced in the 'Journal des Dames et des Modes' on January 5, 1810 informing its readers that 'we have just seen a clock modelled after Angelica Kauffman, a bronze Amour putting his index finger to his lips, and leaning on a small antique altar… A superb model, this clock illustrates a happy allegory. Called 'Guard to you!’, this little Amour, placed in the boudoir of a beauty, warns those who recognise it of the dangers we run, when we are young.’ It also references the 'L'Amour Menaçant' sculpture for Louis XV's mistress Madame de Pompadour by Etienne-Maurice Falconet., now in the Louvre.
The Royal Furnishers acquired three models of this clock for the Imperial apartments: one was purchased in 1809 for the dining room of the Imperial apartments and one for the bedroom of the apartment of Madame de Bassano in 1810 at the Palais de Compiègne; then another in 1810 for the main Salon of the Empress at the Petit Trianon.
Signed 'Ledure Bronzier' 'Thomas Horloger'. Eight day silk suspension. France circa 1810
H37.5 x W37 x D9.5cm
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