French Directoire Pendule, Black Marble, Firegilded Bronze, circa 1800

France
marble, bronze, enamel
Directoire around 1800

Dimensions: H x W x D: 46 x 28 x 14 cm

Description:
Antique portal clock in polished black marble with fire-gilded appliques.

Pedestal standing on bell feet with front mounted palmette frieze in bas-relief.
Four columns tapering slightly towards the top with ornate capitals support the roof of the portal in which the clockwork is mounted.
The roof itself is curved upwards like a volute and decorated with rosettes as well as fruit and tendril work.
Below the dial, there is an openwork hanging as a typical design element of the Directoire.

The movement is a French pendulum movement with eight days duration. The sun pendulum is suspended on a thread, typical of the period, and the lockplate striking a bell on the half and full hour is also typical of the late 18th and early 19th century.
The enameled dial with black Roman numerals is signed “Schmit à Paris”.

Condition:
The movement runs absolutely reliable and accurate.
The top applique has an expertly repaired break that is not visible from the front. There are two light bumps to the marble on the back at the very top. This can be seen clearly in one of the photos.
Fine hairline cracks and a minimal chip in the 10 o’clock area.

The watchmaker Schmit à Paris is documented in the literature:
Brian Loomes – Watchmakers and Clockmakers of the World p. 691.