A mantel clock by Chaudé, Restoration period

A late Empire style mantel clock in green marble and patinated bronze, with gilt bronze details. The dial is signed "Chaudé, clockmaker to the king." On the back of the movement is stamped the mark "Larzet à Paris" with, below it, the signature "Douille" discreetly engraved. The movement has a silk thread winding mechanism. The striking mechanism marks the hours and half-hours. In good working order. The entire clock is made of green veined marble; at the top, a putto in patinated brown bronze consults a book, with a lyre at his feet. The putto statuette is remarkable. The other bronze parts are gilded and finely chased; it is exceptional to encounter a piece of such excellence. For its creation, Chaudé called upon the best artist of his time. The fact that he added "Clockmaker to the King" to his name proves that we are after 1815, during the Restoration period, and at that time only Thomire could produce bronzes of this optimal quality. Fine scratches on the twisted gilt bronze cord were chased to simulate plant fibers, which softens the cord's brilliance. We did not disassemble the clock to check if any bronze element bore a workshop mark. As the Empire style is still very pronounced, we can suggest a date of creation around 1815-20. This is an exceptional piece.

No restoration. Original gilding. Some insignificant wear from use. Height 51 cm.

This model of clock exists in many examples, from different periods and qualities.