The Greco Roman god Dionysus/Bacchus was frequently referenced by French figural clocks, as in this example. Wine is integral to French culture, and the Country has a long history of wine production, dating back to antiquity. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the upper classes were classically educated and therefore very familiar with Greek and Roman mythology, and clocks from this period often have classical themes.
On this clock, human figures are depicted feeding a goat and a leopard. Goats were Dionysus’ sacrificial animal and they are present in most bacchanal scenes. Leopards are also associated with the god, since their skins were worn by Dionysus and he traveled by chariot pulled by lions. Wild cats with their capricious behavior symbolized Dionysus’ wild side.
Circa 1835, silk thread suspension. This is a "Death Clock", from the time period when mercury was used in the gilding process.
On this clock, human figures are depicted feeding a goat and a leopard. Goats were Dionysus’ sacrificial animal and they are present in most bacchanal scenes. Leopards are also associated with the god, since their skins were worn by Dionysus and he traveled by chariot pulled by lions. Wild cats with their capricious behavior symbolized Dionysus’ wild side.
Circa 1835, silk thread suspension. This is a "Death Clock", from the time period when mercury was used in the gilding process.
This elaborate clock from the 19th century has all the design elements of the rococo period. The asymmetrical organic curves and undulations provide a throne-like pedestal for the two beautifully sculpted putti. The puto on the left, with stylus and tablet, represents literature; the one on the right, using a hammer and chisel to carve a bust, represents art. Art and literature were considered the highest achievements of culture in 19th century France.
Ca 1880. 22 inches wide,21 inches tall, 8 inches deep at the base.
At some point, someone made this into a "lamp clock", as there are holes drilled in the back as you can see in the picture.
I have owned this clock twice. I originally bought this clock in 2002 and kept in my personal collection.
In 2008 I sold it to a Lady in Raleigh. In 2017 she passed away and I bought the clock out of the Estate.
The subject matter is incredible on this clock. Note the Putti on the right is chasing a bronze!!
Ca 1880. 22 inches wide,21 inches tall, 8 inches deep at the base.
At some point, someone made this into a "lamp clock", as there are holes drilled in the back as you can see in the picture.
I have owned this clock twice. I originally bought this clock in 2002 and kept in my personal collection.
In 2008 I sold it to a Lady in Raleigh. In 2017 she passed away and I bought the clock out of the Estate.
The subject matter is incredible on this clock. Note the Putti on the right is chasing a bronze!!
