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French George Washington Mantel Clock
- This rare Washington bust clock is attributed to Parisian clockmaker Louis Mallet
- Washington’s classical portrait rises above a striking gilt dial and rich ormolu ornament
- Its eighteen stars may reference the states in the Union between 1812 and 1816
- Washington clocks unite French artistry with the patriotic spirit of the early republic
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Attributed to Louis Mallet, Paris
Circa 1820
This clock is a particularly rare version of a Washington clock, presenting America’s first president in the classical manner of an ancient Roman statesman. Attributed to Parisian clockmaker Louis Mallet, the timepiece combines a sculptural patinated bronze bust with brilliant ormolu ornament and a striking gilt dial. Washington clocks hold a distinguished place in early American decorative arts collecting, with related examples preserved. . .
Attributed to Louis Mallet, Paris
Circa 1820
This clock is a particularly rare version of a Washington clock, presenting America’s first president in the classical manner of an ancient Roman statesman. Attributed to Parisian clockmaker Louis Mallet, the timepiece combines a sculptural patinated bronze bust with brilliant ormolu ornament and a striking gilt dial. Washington clocks hold a distinguished place in early American decorative arts collecting, with related examples preserved in the White House, Winterthur Museum and the Walters Art Museum.
The finely patterned gilt dial displays black Roman numerals within a border of overlapping leaves. Below, a magnificent eagle spreads its wings amid clouds and radiating sunbeams, clutching arrows and an olive branch. Eighteen stars surround its head, possibly referencing the eighteen states in the Union between 1812 and 1816. This intriguing detail suggests that the design may have originated during those years. Richly chased foliate mounts and gilt block feet complete the architectural case.
Mallet was clockmaker to the Duc d’Orléans, the future King Louis-Philippe, who visited George Washington at Mount Vernon in 1797. Produced in France for an American clientele, Washington clocks united European decorative artistry with the emerging nation’s patriotic identity. These luxurious timepieces allowed collectors to express their admiration for Washington while displaying their sophisticated taste. This example celebrates his international stature through the enduring visual language of classical antiquity.
Inscribed “Enoch Sutton 5 1827” on the reverse of the dial, likely recording servicing by the Boston watch and clockmaker.
20 1/4" high x 9" wide x 5 2/4" deep
| Period: | 19th Century |
| Origin: | France |
| Type: | Mantel Clocks |
| Depth: | 5.75 in. (14.61 cm) |
| Width: | 9.0 in. (22.86 cm) |
| Height: | 20.25 in. (51.44 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
