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The Astronomy Lesson French Empire Mantel Clock
The Astronomy Lesson French Empire Mantel Clock
The Astronomy Lesson French Empire Mantel Clock
The Astronomy Lesson French Empire Mantel Clock
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The Astronomy Lesson French Empire Mantel Clock

  • This magnificent French Empire ormolu mantel clock depicts an astronomy lesson
  • The elaborate detail and classical motifs are the quintessence of Empire elegance
  • The clock features a white enamel dial and beautiful verde antico marble base
  • Get complete item description here
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Item No. 31-8648

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Description
This magnificent French Empire ormolu mantel clock features the iconic Neoclassical genre scene often referred to as "The Astronomy Lesson." A popular motif during this period, Emperor Napoleon owned a similar clock made by master bronzier Jean-André Reiche in 1807—marking it as a quintessential objet d'art that defined the aristocratic tastes of the Empire period.

This clock features a governess and her young pupil during an astronomy lesson. Both in elegant period dress and. . .
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This magnificent French Empire ormolu mantel clock features the iconic Neoclassical genre scene often referred to as "The Astronomy Lesson." A popular motif during this period, Emperor Napoleon owned a similar clock made by master bronzier Jean-André Reiche in 1807—marking it as a quintessential objet d'art that defined the aristocratic tastes of the Empire period.

This clock features a governess and her young pupil during an astronomy lesson. Both in elegant period dress and deep in scholarly thought, the two women consider the star chart before them with an astrolabe looming overhead, an ancient instrument used as a physical model of heavenly bodies. The astronomer's student consults a book in her hand, with a stack of several more lying in wait on the floor behind her. Women were often used as the subject in clocks where learning or technology was involved during this period, indicating the feeling of emancipation for women in the new France after the revolution.

With no detail spared, this clock is the utmost expression of Empire luxury. The pair sit on luxurious Empire-style chairs, highly decorated with elaborate scrollwork, and the base features fitting motifs such as a pair of putti presenting an array of scientific instruments, a table globe and an impressive astronomical telescope. Among the abundance of shimmering ormolu, the clock's white enamel dial and verde antico marble base perfectly complete an overall symphony of opulence.

Circa 1810

16" high x 15 1/2" wide x 5" deep
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The Astronomy Lesson French Empire Mantel Clock
Period: 19th Century
Origin: France
Type: Mantel Clocks
Depth: 5.0 in. (12.7 cm)
Width: 15.44 in. (39.21 cm)
Height: 16.0 in. (40.64 cm)
The Astronomy Lesson French Empire Mantel Clock
Time For Luxury: Mantel Clocks

As beautiful as it is functional, a luxuriously designed clock can provide the perfect focal point for any well-appointed room. Always desirable, mantel clocks can also be the perfect gift for any holiday occasion....

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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.

Learn More

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

Our philosophy has always been to offer clients only the very finest antiques, works of art and jewelry, and to back every transaction with the highest level of customer service. Earning your trust and delivering only the very best pieces is our top priority.

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For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses an extraordinary collection of fine jewels to satisfy the most discerning collector. Stunning creations by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Patek Philippe are offered alongside extreme rarities such as vivid yellow, pink and blue diamonds, coveted Burma and Kashmir sapphires and elusive Golconda diamonds prized for their fire and perfection. Iconic jewels from the Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Victorian periods round out the collection.

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Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the world’s most extraordinary and beautiful treasures has remained steadfast and our acquisition philosophy is simple: seek out and acquire only the very finest works whose provenance, beauty and rarity set them apart from all others. Our clients can be certain that each and every piece in our gallery has been hand-selected and carefully vetted for authenticity, condition and provenance. And, because our network of contacts spans generations, we are often able to acquire pieces that may have otherwise never been available on the market.

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