Charles X clock. France, c. 1830

Charles X clock. France, c. 1830
Mercury gilt bronze. Partially enameled dial. Base in tortoiseshell veneer.
With silk thread pendulum suspension.
Signed on the movement: "Bourdin / Horloger du Roi".
Presents faults; thread of the sonnerie broken.
Measurements: 55 x 21 x 21 x 13 cm; 8 x 28,5 x 19 cm (base)

This table clock "a la cathedrale" in the form of a Gothic cathedral reflects the characteristic historicist taste of the period. Its structure imitates the imposing lines of a Gothic cathedral, with elongated towers, pinnacles and pointed arches accentuating its verticality. The main body of the clock presents meticulous ornamentation, with bronze openwork tracery that simulates Gothic windows, and floral and geometric details that adorn the surfaces. In the central part, on the pediment, is the clock face with black Roman numerals and openwork hands also in black, standing out against the golden background.

The gilding of the bronze gives it an appearance of richness and solemnity, creating a play of light on its carved details when the light falls on it. This type of clock not only served as a functional element, but was also a symbol of status and appreciation for medieval art, recreating in miniature the architectural splendor of Gothic cathedrals.