Object of the Day: Antique French Figural Clock and Garniture

With rose marble bases, ormolu decorations and a spelter figure, this antique French clock and garniture is the height of French Nineteenth-Century design. The movement of this clock is by Japy Freres—the great French clockmakers founded by Frederick Japy in 1810. A non-chiming clock, it was designed for use in a bedroom. And, so, this clock and its flanking candelabrum happily grace the mantle in my own bedroom. Called a “figural clock” because of the sculpture that perches atop the timepiece, this set demonstrates the fluidity and grace unique to French design. The figure is exceptional. Sculpted by Rousseau, the figure is called “Les Lilacs” and depicts a young woman in a flowing gown. In her outstretched hand, she holds stalks of lilac and is the personification of freedom and springtime.

Exquisite in both materials and craftsmanship, this fine clock garniture is a reminder of the fleeting nature of beauty and encourages me to make the most of each day. Time, after all, is ticking away…