{"product_id":"french-george-washington-mantel-clock","title":"French George Washington Mantel Clock","description":"George Washington Bust Clock\u003cbr\u003e Attributed to Louis Mallet, Paris\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1820 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Inscribed “Enoch Sutton 5 1827” on the reverse of the dial, likely recording servicing by the Boston watch and clockmaker. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 20 1\/4\" high x 9\" wide x 5 2\/4\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46258681774215,"sku":"32-3306","price":138500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-3306_1.png?v=1792530119","url":"https:\/\/rauantiques.com\/products\/french-george-washington-mantel-clock","provider":"M.S. Rau","version":"1.0","type":"link"}