{"product_id":"george-washington-mantel-clock","title":"George Washington Mantel Clock","description":"George Washington Mantel Clock\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1825 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 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. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 28\" high x 24\" wide x 9 1\/2\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44829171843207,"sku":"32-2708","price":398500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2708_1.png?v=1781112086","url":"https:\/\/rauantiques.com\/products\/george-washington-mantel-clock","provider":"M.S. Rau","version":"1.0","type":"link"}