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Exclusive clocks and decorative objects from 18th-19th century
Inspired by Antiquity, this Empire clock, known as “The Astronomy Lesson”, depicts two young women seated in opulent Etruscan armchairs at a table, studying a map placed on a draped surface, upon which rests an armillary sphere. Attributed to Claude Galle (1759–1815), the clock originates from a design drawing by Jean-André Reiche (1752–1817), published in a sales catalogue and dated 1807 (see last image).
Engrossed in reading a celestial map placed on the table, the young woman on the left appears deeply focused, while her companion on the right reads aloud from an astronomy book. Symbolising the pursuit of knowledge, this composition embodies the intellectual curiosity of youth. At the centre of the table, a circular dial is set against a beautifully draped cloth, its edges elegantly finished with lion’s claws. Exhibiting the refined characteristics of late 18th- and early 19th-century craftsmanship, the furniture reflects the period’s aesthetic ideals. Resting on a rectangular breakfront base, the clock is adorned with intricate appliqués of a telescope, a terrestrial globe, and surveying instruments held by winged putti, all supported by six bell-shaped feet.
This model enjoyed considerable success, as it perfectly encapsulates the key aesthetic themes of the Empire period—rigour, wisdom, and moderation. The composition extends even to the back of the clock, designed to be appreciated when reflected in a mantelpiece mirror.
Attributed to the master bronzier Claude Galle, who is known to have produced identical clocks, the bronze case is based on a design drawing by Jean-André Reiche, dated 1807 and inscribed: “La Leçon d’Astronomie – 1807 – 125 par Reiche”, which is held in the print room of the National Library in Paris. The album in which it appears contains drawings of clocks deposited between 1807 and 1809 for model protection purposes.
Jean-André Reiche’s inventive design is directly inspired by the finest creations of Percier and Fontaine, such as the gondola armchairs and tables. The close collaboration between the designer Reiche and the bronzier Galle is well documented.
The clock features a white enamel dial with Roman numerals, Arabic quarter-hour markers, and elegantly shaped gilt bronze hands.
This magnificent Empire clock is in excellent condition, with its mercury gilding impeccably preserved. The movement, equipped with an anchor escapement, wire suspension, and an external count wheel, strikes the hours and half-hours on a bell. Recently serviced by a professional clockmaker, it is in perfect working order and is accompanied by its pendulum, bell, and key.
Origin: Paris, circa 1807.
Dimensions: Height 35 cm (13.8?), Width 38,5 cm (15.2?), Depth 12,5 cm (4.9?).
Literature
- Hans Ottomeyer & Peter Pröschel, “Vergoldete Bronzen, Die Bronzearbeiten des Spätbarock und Klassizismus”, München 1986, p. 374 fig. 5.15.1 and 5.15.2.
- Pierre Kjellberg, “Encyclopédie de la pendule française” , p.398 #D.
- Elke Niehüser, “French Bronze Clocks”, p. 218 #459.
- Jean-Pierre Samoyault, “Pendules et bronzes d’ameublement entrés sous le Premier Empire”, 1989, p. 58 #15.
- Bibliothèque National, Cabinet d’Estampes, Paris.
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