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Empire Tekmessa and Eurysakes Mantel Clock
- This Empire mantel clock depicts the myth of Tekmessa and Ajax and their son Eurysakes
- The case is executed in mercury-gilded bronze, a technique valued for its rich, luminous finish
- Its white enamel dial is signed Deschamps à Paris
- In the early 19th century, classical narratives such as this were frequently revived in the decorative arts
- Get complete item description here
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Deschamps à Paris
Circa 1810
A refined expression of Neoclassical elegance, this Empire mantel clock reflects the early 19th-century fascination with classical antiquity, rendered in finely cast mercury-gilded bronze. Signed Deschamps à Paris, the work unites sculptural narrative and horological precision, depicting the myth of Tekmessa, Ajax and their son Eurysakes.
Tekmessa is shown seated on an upholstered chair raised on claw feet, presenting the shield of Ajax to. . .
Deschamps à Paris
Circa 1810
A refined expression of Neoclassical elegance, this Empire mantel clock reflects the early 19th-century fascination with classical antiquity, rendered in finely cast mercury-gilded bronze. Signed Deschamps à Paris, the work unites sculptural narrative and horological precision, depicting the myth of Tekmessa, Ajax and their son Eurysakes.
Tekmessa is shown seated on an upholstered chair raised on claw feet, presenting the shield of Ajax to her son Eurysakes, who stands attentively beside her. Neoclassical tables frame the central figures, while the rectangular base is decorated with finely chased relief scenes from the story of Ajax, extending the narrative across the composition. The case is executed in mercury-gilded bronze, a traditional fire-gilding technique valued for its rich, luminous finish and no longer practiced today due to the hazardous nature of its production process.
Rooted in Greek mythology and later dramatized by Sophocles, the story of Ajax, Tekmessa and Eurysakes reflects themes of honor, fate and legacy. Ajax, one of the great heroes of the Trojan War, descends into despair following the loss of Achilles’ arms, ultimately taking his own life. His son Eurysakes, named for his father’s legendary shield, is raised by Tekmessa and later brought to Salamis, where he is said to become king. In the early 19th century, such classical narratives were frequently revived in the decorative arts, serving as vehicles for moral reflection and artistic refinement within the Empire aesthetic.
21 1/2" high x 18" wide x 6" deep
| Period: | 19th Century |
| Origin: | France |
| Type: | Mantel Clocks |
| Depth: | 6.0 in. (15.24 cm) |
| Width: | 17.75 in. (45.09 cm) |
| Height: | 21.0 in. (53.34 cm) |
Buy With Confidence
For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.
On Approval
Examine select works in person before you commit
125% Guarantee
Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years
Trusted Expertise
Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists
