CA0174 French Empire Alexander the Great bronze mantel clock

An unusual fine and impressive early 19th century French Empire period Alexander the Great patinated and gilt bronze mantel clock. Surmounted by a superbly modelled figure of the seated young Alexander. This clock illustrates the advice of Aristotle, Alexander's teacher, who suggested whilst studying that he hold a rock in his hand so if he falls asleep the rock will fall into the bowl and wake him up in order to continue his studies. Beautifully cast and chased example with three classical bronze mounts to the base depicting busts a victorious Alexander and Athena the Greek godess of war with a central ouroboros. Eight day silk suspension movement. France, circa 1815.
For a very similar version of this clock in the Spanish Royal collection see: J.Ramon Colon de Carvajal 'Catalogo de Relojes del Patrimonio Nacional' catalogue number 272.

H 51.5cm