A FRENCH BRONZE RENAISSANCE REVIVAL MANTEL CLOCK

A FRENCH BRONZE RENAISSANCE REVIVAL MANTEL CLOCKThe dial signed for J. Levy and movement stamped for Japy Freres, Paris, Late 19th centuryThe circular eight-day bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by disc-bob pendulum incorporating Brocot type regulation to suspension, the backplate stamped with initilas E.B. serial number 15272 to the upper left over JAPY FRERES & CIE, MED. D'HONNEUR roundel to centre and further number 4 11 to lower margin, the dial with stylised elongated Roman numeral enamel cartouche numerals and inscribed J. LEVY, 29 Rue Sevigne, PARIS to centre, with cram painted hands set behind hinged convex glazed bezel, the case cast with a grotesque winged lion rearing up over the dial and surmounted with a leafy coronet flanking scroll-bordered shield motif over a platform base cast with leafy strapwork apron flanked by conforming panel-shaped feet, the whole applied to an integral parcel gilt ebonised gesso plinth base.42cm (16.5ins) high, 27cm (10.5ins) wide, 14.5cm (5.75ins) deep overall. Provenance: The Selwyn Demmy Collection. The Parisian bronzier Gustave Levy succeeded the famous founder Vittoz who had sold his workshop at 29 rue Sevigne to E. de Labroue in 1852 who then passed it over to Levy in around 1855. The firm was awarded bronze medals in both the World Exhibition in London in 1862 and in Paris in 1867; they were also presented with amedal of merit at the World Exhibition in Vienna in 1873. Their biggest award however was a gold medal at the 1878 World Exhibition where it exhibited a large Renaissance candlestick stand with seventeen lights. The reputation of the company was such that G.J. Levy supplied a suite of fireplace decorations with clocks and candle sticks to the U.S. President Grover Cleveland which is now conserved at the Hoffman Clock Museum in Newark. In 1881, the Levy company came under the direction of Emile Vie before being taken back by Emile Colin in 1882. Condition Report: Movement appears complete and original with no visible evidence of alteration or significant replacements. The movement is in essentially sound working condition but is dirty/neglected hence a clean/service is required before putting into service. The dial has enamel chipping/losses to the enamel cartouches around each winding hole otherwise appears to be in good original condition. The bronze case is in good original condition with faults very much limited to some light rubbing/scratching to the patinated finish in places; the gesso covered wooden stand has overall edge rubbing and some light scratches and chipping in places.Clock has a pendulum but no winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer