Table clock; Paris, c. 1780-1790.

Desk clock; Paris, c. 1780-1790.
Biscuit porcelain and mercury gilt bronze.
Preserves key and pendulum.
Presents loss of the rear bezel.
Measurements: 49 x 33 x 13 cm.
This biscuit table clock sits on six gilt bronze legs with chamfered ball. These give way to a perimeter of fine gilt that runs along the porcelain base of the clock. This base has a rectangular format and is adorned by a frieze relief ornamented with the presence of angels musicians and on the sides bronze appliques with torch design. A pattern inspired by the decoration of the classical world. In the upper area is set the clock case inserted in a background that simulates a rock. The case with gilded bronze perimeter, has a white dial with Roman numerals in black and Breguet hands as usual in this type of pieces. Finally, the work is topped by a large female sculpture, dressed in the classical manner with a tunic where you can see a delicate work that simulates the technique of wet cloths, so appreciated in classical statuary. The young woman holds a large bundle on her legs, in such a way that it is an allegorical representation.

Formally, the figuration is directly inspired by ancient classical art, a constant reference in the arts of this period. The biscuit technique, used in this piece, offers a matte and very white finish to the pieces, began to be used in the mid-eighteenth century, especially in France, in the factory of Sèvres, and in Italy, in the Royal Factory of Capodimonte.