Offered by Antiquités Olivier Alberteau
General antiques dealer in Nantes
Louis XVI cartel in gilded bronze, decorated with the Nemean lion.
Of neo-classical inspiration, the shapes and ornamental elements reflect the return of antique taste. The lion's muzzle surmounts a molded entablature, decorated with a dentil cornice under which are pine cones as well as a cluster of fruits emerging from foliage. On either side of the dial, connected to the lion's muzzle, are the paws of the lion's remains attached to the front of which 2 ram's heads adorn a sheath. At the cushion, a draped urn tops a classic entablature.
The enameled dial is signed by the watchmaker DELANOY in Paris. Received master in 1780, existing documentation mentions him as being a member of the masonic lodge "The True Light".
The wire movement strikes the hours and half hours as it passes.*
Parisian work circa 1780/1790
Perfect working condition.
Inspired by Greek mythology, the Nemean lion is a fantastic creature. Killing him and bringing back his skin was the first of the 12 labors of Hercules.
Height: 82 cm.
Width: 41.5 cm.