Clock, movement and dial by John Moore & Son; case France, ca. 1810

V&A — Summary

This clock, in the form of a trophy, is typical of the Empire taste for military themes derived from classical art. The maker is unknown, but the exceptional quality of the casting and finishing is evident in the minuscule detail, the careful contrast in the chasing textures, and the mirror-like burnishing. The English dial and movement are probably later in date than the case which is probably French

V&A — Physical description

Wall clock, gilt bronze, cast and chased, in the form of a trophy for suspension, the central shield bearing the dial surrounded by a wreath of oak leaves, below is an eagle grasping a thunderbolt. Above a two plumed helments surmounted respectively by an eagle and a griffin; behind are fasces, four standards, two short swords and branches of oak and laurel. Casting and finishing of exceptional quality, with minuscule detail, careful contrast in the chasing textures and mirror-like burnishing.

V&A — Object history

This clock, in the form of a trophy, is typical of the Empire taste for military themes derived from classical art. The maker is unknown, but the exceptional quality of the casting and finishing is evident in the minuscule detail, the careful contrast in the chasing textures, and the mirror-like burnishing. The English dial and movement are probably later in date than the case.

V&A — Production note

The maker of the case is unknown. The attribution date refers to the case. Movement and dial bear the name of John Moore & Son, Clerkenwell, London (active about 1824 to 1842).

V&A gallery label

Wall Clock Case about 1810; movement about 1830 Gilded bronze was an important element in fashionable Empire interiors, used for clocks, candelabra and fire ornaments. Clock cases were designed as small-scale sculpture. This case is exceptionally fine. The chasing or chiselling gives life to the surface and creates a contrast between highly burnished areas and others that are matt or textured.