French Directoire Bronze & Ormolu Blackamoor Clock
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A French Directoire Miniature patinated bronze and Ormolu or gilt bronze Blackamoor mantle clock in the neoclassical manner. Although very Empire and Neoclassical this item is from the Directiore period from the 18th century the period just before the First French Empire period began. French, Circa: 1795-1800. Measuring: 7.5" high by 6" wide.
The movement signed "CHAPPE A PARIS". Chappe(maitre 1795). The bronze case is attributed to Jean-Simon
Deverberie(1764-1824).
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Literature:
Jean-Simon
Deverberie(1764-1824).
Drawings and art works by Deverberie are in the Bibliotheque Nationale, Paris. The
design of this case reflects the late 18th century interest in 'le bon savage' encouraged by the idyllic
representations of Bernadin de Saint-Pierre and de Chateaubriand, and the abolition of slavery by the
convention in 1793. The first of French Clocks of this style appears to have been 'la negresse' delivered by
Furet and Gaudon to Marie Antionette in 1784. A version of which, possibly purchased by the Prince of
Whales in 1790, is included in the current exhibition at the Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace. Interest in
'La bon savage' was maintained throughout the Empire period despite Napoleon's reintroduction of slavery in
1802.
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Lost wax method of bronze casting. Hand chasing and chiseling of the surface. Original patina present and intact. The ormolu is Mercury gilded with both Matt finish and highly burnished areas of highlight. Gilding is original and in tact. br>
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Exhibitions:
1960's - 1970's ----- Ringling Museum, Sarasota, Florida, United States.
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Provenance:
1895 - 1931 --------- Collection Family of Nobility, Europe.
1931 - 1991 --------- Collection of a Gentleman, N.Y.,FL., United States |
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