Napoleon III fireplace trim

A fireplace set from the second half of the 19th century, Second Empire period, probably of Parisian manufacture, including a clock and two candelabras in gilded bronze with Champlevé enamels.

Champlevé enameling shares similarities with the cloisonné technique, so much so that the enamel is applied in precise compartments, each delineated by flush metal.

Where the cloisonné technique allows for the addition of metal to delineate the cells, the Champlevé enameling technique is characterized by precise excisions of metal in the mass of the object, leaving the raised outline of the compartments. The cells thus introduced are subsequently filled with molten colored glass or powdered colored glass reheated directly on the metal.

The clock features a mechanical spring-driven movement providing eight days of operation. Both of its winding keys are present.

It is decorated with sphinxes at its two front feet, two lion paws at each back foot, ornamental acanthus leaves, reflective cartouches, flames, and two faces on each side. Two faces that recall the character of the Neo-Renaissance style.

The two girandoles feature four arms, decorated with plant motifs, each supporting a cup to collect wax and a socket topped with a simple bobèche.

The central pilaster with two girandoles, which contains the main peg, supports a binet topped with a decorative flame-shaped bobèche. A bobèche that would allow the choice of adding an additional candle, or leaving its ornamental lid in place.

The convex and enameled medallion features two handles. A silhouette that would recall the characteristics of the amphora prototype.
Each girandole is supported by four feet. Feet that are each adorned with a decorative lion’s paw.

Era: Napoleon III

Dimensions:
Dimensions of the clock:
Height: 55 cm
Width: 28.5 cm
Depth: 16.5 cm

Dimensions of the girandoles:
Height: 47.7 cm
Diameter at the widest point: 17.7 cm

Condition: Good