Jean-André Reiche
This beautiful, fire-gilt mantel clock was designed by Jean-André Reiche (Leipzig 1752-Paris 1817), one of the most famous Parisian designers of the Empire period. He became particularly famous for his Pendules Au Nègre (Negro mantel clocks). He registered this design in January 1808 and the watercolour drawing with the design is in the collection of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris.
The composition of the walking (dark) man with a bale of cotton on his back, in which the clockwork is incorporated, was a completely new concept at the time, also because the clock can be admired from all sides and has a dynamic appearance.
This so-called Portefaix mantel clock has an enamelled dial in excellent condition with beautiful 'openwork' gilded hands. This Portefaix (which means the bearer) has a stick in one hand and a letter in the other.
A more than beautiful clock, with beautifully finished, partly polished and patinated details, the gilding and the dark patina work are in good condition. (Patination is an old, decorative colouring technique that gives depth and authenticity.)
Nice original small clockwork with cord pendulum, the striking mechanism is regulated by a locking wheel and strikes a small bell every half and full hour.
You will find this Portefix described in Pierre Kjellberg, “Encyclopédie de la Pendule Française du Moyen Age au XXe Siècle”, page 343 and in Elke Niehüser, “French Bronze Clocks”, page. 149 and 240.
Dating ca. 1810 Empire period.
Dimensions: height 36 cm, width 26.5 cm and depth 10 cm.
€
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Verkocht / Sold / Verkauft
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