A particularly attractive antique French carriage clock with rare black enamel dial plates backing the very well cast filigree masks.
The contrast of gilt on black is eye-catching. The Angliase-style brass case has been recently regilded and the presentation of the clock is as new. The pierced dial mask has a Medieval theme; an armoured helmet to the centre over crossed spears and flowing ribbons, and flanked with fire torches. Two eagle heads above the dial complete the powerful scene, all executed to a fine level of detail.
The identical side frets each depict a Medieval fire basket amid swags and ribbons, and the same eagle heads.
The black dial has subdued gilt painted Roman numerals that do not detract from the position of the gilt hands. Often, decorative carriage clocks are difficult to read the time by. This is not the case with this clock.
The eight-day gong-striking movement repeats the last hour struck at will, with the push-button on the top of the case. The movement retain its originalsilvered lever platform escapement. The back-plate is signed for the maker E.M & Co.
E Maurice & Co. are recorded as working at Rue Charlot 75, Paris and showed carriage clocks at the 1889 Paris Exposition. They used Ernest Pitcher of E Pitcher & Co, London as their sole importers into the United Kingdom. Allix & Bonnert, in their book Carriage Clocks, Their History and Development, list E. Maurice & Co. as “A very fine maker, specialising in cloisonné enamel, and in small clock sets. One of the very few makers ever to use black dials….”
- Height: 17cms ( 6½ inches)
- Width: 9.5 cms ( 3¾ inches)
- Depth: 8.5 cms (3¼ inches)
We have looked after this clock for its previous owner, but will re-overhaul it prior to sale and guarantee it for 3 years.
Dated c.1895
Ref: SJD42
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