A FRENCH CHARLES X ORMOLU AND PATINATED BRONZE FUGURAL MANTEL CLOCK WITH WATER SPOUT AUTOMATON

A FRENCH CHARLES X ORMOLU AND PATINATED BRONZE FUGURAL MANTEL CLOCK WITH WATER SPOUT AUTOMATONUnsigned, Paris, circa 1830The circular eight-day countwheel bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by disc bob pendulum incorporating silk suspension, the backplate stamped with serial number 98 to lower margin, set above a second rectangular going barrel mechanism driving the automaton feature controlled by a pull/push lever set to the left hand side of the case, the gilt dial with concentric engine-turned centre within chapter ring cast with Roman cartouche numerals set within a floral band and with steel fleur-de-lys hands, the rectangular plinth form case with gilt surmount cast as a garlanded amorino holding a paddle reclining beside an upturned vessel pouring water and objects symbolic of the arts, over repeating lotus-leaf ogee cornice and cornucopia cast upper quadrant mounts above the dial and grotesque mask issuing revolving clear spiral rod 'water jet' glanced by upturned dolphin terms beneath, the rectangular base projecting at the front to provide a 'cistern' with aperture bordered with naturalistically cast reeds and fronted with a gilt repeating Gothic arch fretwork panel incorporating twin swan and scroll decoration to lower margin, on shallow gilt repeating leaf cast ogee-topped skirt base over dolphin cast front feet.57cm (22.5ins) high, 25cm (10ins) wide, 19cm (7.5ins) deep. Provenance: The Selwyn Demmy Collection.Condition Report: The movement is in relatively clean working condition with no obvious evidence of significant alteration or replacements. The automaton movement is operational however the rotation of the rod is a little lazy/laboured hence a gentle clean/service is advised. The automaton appears to only operate on demand (by pulling the plunger); the clear twisted rod also appears to be a replacement made from Perspex rather than glass. The engine-turned disc that forms the dial centre is a little loose in its housing otherwise dial is in good original condition with only very light discolouration/wear to the castings. The case is generally in good original condition. The surmount has noticeable wear/discolouration to the gilding, otherwise wear is generally very light. The rear push-on cover (concealing the movement) is a little loose when fitted but appears undamaged.Clock has pendulum but no winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer