Ladies and gentlemen, behold this magnificent French Rococo Revival Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock, a true testament to the opulence and intricate craftsmanship of the late 19th century. This isn't just a timepiece; it's a sculptural masterpiece designed to command attention in any elegant interior.
Crafted circa 1880-1890, this clock embodies the lavish spirit of the Rococo Revival, a period that celebrated the ornate and curvilinear forms of 18th-century France. While the case and movement are undoubtedly French in origin, its provenance is elevated by the prestigious retailer: Tiffany & Co. of New York, whose mark and serial number '6738' are clearly visible on the movement, confirming its distinguished lineage.
The case is a tour de force of gilt bronze casting, featuring a cascade of scrolling acanthus leaves, delicate floral motifs, and a captivating classical female mask at its heart. The intricate details, from the flame finial to the pierced hands on the enamel dial, speak volumes about the skill of its makers. The robust brass plates and coiled gongs of the movement further attest to its quality and intended longevity.
In terms of condition, the clock presents very well for its age. It exhibits the expected warm patination and minor surface wear that only time can bestow, enhancing its antique charm. Crucially, the movement appears intact, suggesting it has been well-preserved over the decades. This is a genuine period piece, not a reproduction, with its authenticity firmly supported by the Tiffany & Co. mark and consistent stylistic elements.
Considering its quality, provenance, and condition, I would place a conservative auction estimate for this exquisite French Rococo Revival Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock, retailed by Tiffany & Co., in the range of $2,500 to $5,500. A truly timeless piece that continues to tell a story of elegance and artistry.
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Item Report
French Rococo Revival Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock
By:Retailed by Tiffany & Co., New York (movement and case likely French)
Style:Rococo Revival Style
Origin:France (retailed in USA)
Materials:Gilt bronze, enamel, brass, steel
Age:Circa 1880-1890
Condition:Very Good (expected patination and minor surface wear consistent with age, movement appears intact, not professionally graded)
Maker's Marks / Writing:TIFFANY & CO NEW-YORK, 6738 (serial number)
Date:2026-06-23 11:28:24.075858
Description:
An ornate gilt bronze mantel clock in the Rococo Revival style, featuring elaborate scrolling acanthus leaves, floral motifs, and a central cartouche with a classical female mask. The clock is surmounted by an urn-form finial with scrolling handles and a flame motif. It has a white enamel dial with Roman numerals and intricate pierced hands, and a visible pendulum movement with coiled gongs.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
This is a fine example of a late 19th-century Rococo Revival mantel clock, retailed by the prestigious Tiffany & Co. The quality of the gilt bronze casting and the intricate design are characteristic of high-end French clockmaking of the period. The presence of the Tiffany & Co. mark significantly adds to its desirability and value.
Individual Images:
whole clock on black background
whole clock on grey background
detail of top finial
detail of classical face
side view of clock
back view of clock
interior clock movement
detail of Tiffany & Co. mark
front upper half of clock
Provenance:
N/A
Condition:
Very Good (expected patination and minor surface wear consistent with age, movement appears intact, not professionally graded)
Identification Score: 100%
The item is clearly identifiable as a Rococo Revival mantel clock, with all features consistent with this classification.
Authenticity Score: 95%
The presence of the 'TIFFANY & CO NEW-YORK' mark and a serial number '6738' on the movement plate strongly indicates authenticity as a period piece retailed by Tiffany & Co. The style, materials, and construction are entirely consistent with late 19th-century French-made clocks retailed by prominent American jewelers.
Image Memory Note
None
None
Keywords
Rococo Revival, Gilt Bronze, Mantel Clock, Tiffany & Co., French, 19th Century, Ormolu, Desk Clock, Table Clock, New York
The report was edited after initial Artmink draft. Original AI draft preserved in Artmink audit history.
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