Mantel Clock

ClassificationsDECORATIVE ARTS

Date1781

Mediummarble, gilt bronze, enamel, glass, brass

Dimensions15 x 12 x 7 in. (38.1 x 30.5 x 17.8 cm.)

DescriptionMantle clock mounted with gilt bronze figures, swags, and trophies.

Signed1. Cronier a Paris painted on front of dial 2. Illegible name (Jullien?) and 29? painted on back of dial 3. Springs scratched with Richard and date may 1781 4. 78830 inscribed in crayon under base

Markings1. Cronier a Paris painted on front of dial 2. Illegible name (Jullien?) and 29? painted on back of dial 3. Springs scratched with Richard and date may 1781 4. 78830 inscribed in crayon under base

Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Adele S. Browning Memorial Collection, gift of Mildred Browning Green and Honorable Lucius Peyton Green

Status

On view

Label TextCovered in finely-wrought gilt bronze, this clock depicts the story of the education of Bacchus, the Roman god of wine. Young Bacchus’ cup is filled by a beautiful bacchante and his emblems of wine ewer, grapes, and vine leaves hang over the top of the case. Though gilt bronze has very little intrinsic value, the high level of technical skill required to work the material and the dangers involved in the process made it very expensive. The final application of mercury, used to achieve its brilliant surface, emitted poisonous vapors, endangering the lives of the bronze workers.

Object number78.20.74