French Clock Garniture Appraisal

Late 19th Century French Bronze and Marble Mantel Clock Garniture

This is a three-piece mantel clock garniture, likely dating from the late 19th century, in the Neoclassical or Empire Revival style. The set comprises a central mantel clock flanked by a pair of decorative urns. All three pieces feature dark patinated bronze or spelter figures and ornamentation set upon white marble bases with gilt bronze or brass accents. The clock itself is an elaborate piece, depicting classical figures surrounding a drum-shaped clock mechanism. A female figure in draped attire is shown on the left, reaching towards the clock face, while a small cherubic figure kneels on the far right, seemingly engaged with some object. Another larger cherub is seated atop the clock drum. The clock face is white with black Roman numerals and delicate gold-colored hands, framed by a brass bezel. The clock rests upon a large, ovoid white marble base, which displays a decorative gilt bronze frieze with a repeating pattern. The two flanking urns are inverted-trumpet or vase-shaped, also made of patinated metal, with applied cherubs and leafy ornamentation. Each urn rests on a smaller, rectangular white marble base, similarly adorned with a gilt bronze or brass decorative band. The overall condition appears to be good for its age, with visible patination and some possible areas of wear or discoloration on the metal surfaces, consistent with antique bronzes. The marble bases show some minor signs of age, such as slight yellowing or small imperfections, but no obvious chips or cracks are discernable from the provided image. The craftsmanship is indicative of a quality ornamental piece from its period, with detailed casting on the figures and decorative elements.