CA0995 Important Empire Period Pallas Athena Mantel Clock

Important, large scale early 19th century French Empire period gilt bronze ormolu and red marble Pallas Athena mantle clock in the manner of Claude Galle, after the antique original in the Vatican Museum in Rome. Surmounted by a fine quality standing figure of Athena wearing a classical plumed helmet with a spear in her right hand and a shield shaped dial in her left hand. The shield decorated with astrological symbols and a central mask of Medusa. The clock hands take the form of snakes from Medusa's mouth. The rectangular red marble plinth sits on a gilt bronze base. Pallas Athena, also known as Minerva, was one of the twelve Olympian gods, she protected several Greek cities, particularly Athens, which bears her name. Her many conquests led to her being associated with Victory; she is almost always represented wearing a helmet and brandishing a spear. Other versions of this clock can be seen in the Schloss Ehrenburg in Coburg, the Spanish Royal Collection, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Paris. 8 day silk suspension movement. France, circa 1815.

H71cm x W26.5cm x D15cm

Price on Request