Boulle Marquetry Clock Appraisal

French Boulle Marquetry Salon Pendule Clock by A.D. Mougin

A magnificent late 19th-century French salon clock standing approximately 68cm tall and 32cm wide. This timepiece features a classic waisted 'religieuse' or balloon shape typical of Louis XV revival styles. The case is expertly crafted in the 'Boulle' technique, characterized by intricate tortoiseshell-colored grounds inlaid with ornate brass scrolling foliate patterns. It is heavily embellished with gilded ormolu (bronze doré) mounts, including a large scrolled acanthus leaf finial, C-scroll borders, and decorative floral feet. The dial is composed of twelve individual white enamel Roman numeral cartouches set into a gilt embossed brass center, featuring decorative pierced hands. The movement is marked by the prestigious maker A.D. Mougin, bearing the 'Deux Médailles' stamp, which signifies awards won at international exhibitions in the late 1800s. The overall craftsmanship is high, exhibiting the precision of French horology and cabinet making. The condition appears well-preserved with a rich patina to the brass and minor signs of age-appropriate wear to the marquetry surface. The gilding remains bright but may have slight rubbing on the high points of the mounts.