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Learn MoreGeorge Washington Mantel Clock
- This is the largest and most elaborate period clock depicting George Washington known
- The French mantel clock was created circa 1825, honoring the legacy of the first president
- Such Washington clocks are very rare, and this example is entirely unique
- The composition was inspired by a likeness by Charles Willson Peale
- Get complete item description here
$398,500
Item No.
32-2708
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Description
George Washington Mantel Clock
Circa 1825
Among the rarest and most desirable expressions of early American patriotism, this extraordinary French mantel clock stands as the largest and most elaborate period clock depicting George Washington known to exist. Created circa 1825, it is a remarkable fusion of sculpture, horology and American history, celebrating the first president at a time when his legacy was admired on both sides of the Atlantic. Unlike most known Washington clocks,. . .
Circa 1825
Among the rarest and most desirable expressions of early American patriotism, this extraordinary French mantel clock stands as the largest and most elaborate period clock depicting George Washington known to exist. Created circa 1825, it is a remarkable fusion of sculpture, horology and American history, celebrating the first president at a time when his legacy was admired on both sides of the Atlantic. Unlike most known Washington clocks,. . .
Read More
George Washington Mantel Clock
Circa 1825
Among the rarest and most desirable expressions of early American patriotism, this extraordinary French mantel clock stands as the largest and most elaborate period clock depicting George Washington known to exist. Created circa 1825, it is a remarkable fusion of sculpture, horology and American history, celebrating the first president at a time when his legacy was admired on both sides of the Atlantic. Unlike most known Washington clocks, which survive in multiple examples and follow established models, this monumental work appears to be entirely unique, distinguished by its exceptional quality, ambitious scale and unparalleled complexity.
The clock presents an elaborate Revolutionary War tableau rendered in finely cast bronze with a rich dark brown patina. Washington stands confidently before a military encampment, holding a scroll inscribed “Déclaration d’Indépendance,” while military instruments and camp furnishings surround him. A book atop the clock case bears an inscription in French referring to the various branches and components of the American military.
The composition was inspired by a revered portrait by Charles Willson Peale, with numerous details from the painting translated into bronze. The sculptural elements display extraordinary technical accomplishment, from the intricate textures of the encampment and military accoutrements to the elaborate base adorned with fruit garlands, crossed weapons, an eagle and a quiver. Warm Siena marble veneers provide a striking contrast to the richly patinated bronze.
Following the American Revolution, George Washington became an international symbol of leadership, liberty and republican ideals. His close friendship with the Marquis de Lafayette and his immense popularity in France inspired a small number of luxury decorative objects celebrating the American hero. French bronziers embraced Washington as a subject, yet few examples survive, and none rival the ambition of the present clock. While other period Washington clocks are held in prestigious institutions such as the White House, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Yale University Art Gallery and the Baltimore Museum of Art, this exceptional example occupies a category of its own, representing one of the most important tributes to Washington ever created in French decorative arts.
28" high x 24" wide x 9 1/2" deep
Circa 1825
Among the rarest and most desirable expressions of early American patriotism, this extraordinary French mantel clock stands as the largest and most elaborate period clock depicting George Washington known to exist. Created circa 1825, it is a remarkable fusion of sculpture, horology and American history, celebrating the first president at a time when his legacy was admired on both sides of the Atlantic. Unlike most known Washington clocks, which survive in multiple examples and follow established models, this monumental work appears to be entirely unique, distinguished by its exceptional quality, ambitious scale and unparalleled complexity.
The clock presents an elaborate Revolutionary War tableau rendered in finely cast bronze with a rich dark brown patina. Washington stands confidently before a military encampment, holding a scroll inscribed “Déclaration d’Indépendance,” while military instruments and camp furnishings surround him. A book atop the clock case bears an inscription in French referring to the various branches and components of the American military.
The composition was inspired by a revered portrait by Charles Willson Peale, with numerous details from the painting translated into bronze. The sculptural elements display extraordinary technical accomplishment, from the intricate textures of the encampment and military accoutrements to the elaborate base adorned with fruit garlands, crossed weapons, an eagle and a quiver. Warm Siena marble veneers provide a striking contrast to the richly patinated bronze.
Following the American Revolution, George Washington became an international symbol of leadership, liberty and republican ideals. His close friendship with the Marquis de Lafayette and his immense popularity in France inspired a small number of luxury decorative objects celebrating the American hero. French bronziers embraced Washington as a subject, yet few examples survive, and none rival the ambition of the present clock. While other period Washington clocks are held in prestigious institutions such as the White House, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Yale University Art Gallery and the Baltimore Museum of Art, this exceptional example occupies a category of its own, representing one of the most important tributes to Washington ever created in French decorative arts.
28" high x 24" wide x 9 1/2" deep
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Specifications
| Period: | 19th Century |
| Origin: | France |
| Type: | Mantel Clocks |
| Depth: | 9.5 in. (24.13 cm) |
| Width: | 24.0 in. (60.96 cm) |
| Height: | 28.0 in. (71.12 cm) |
Buy with Confidence
At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.
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