A tall gilt and patinated bronze figural clock Paris, circa 1865, the figure associated to the gilt-bronze timepiece and base

the black and white enamel dial signed V^{OR PAILLARD / FT DE BRONZE / PARIS}, the associated brown patinated Greek deity with gilt highlights, the base engraved VICTOR PAILLARD / BRONZIER / A PARIS and with the stamp VP beneath a crown.

The figure and Paillard's gilt-bronze elements were later united. As a result, the circular base of the patinated bronze figure is larger than the laurel wreath of the clock base. The fingers of the figure have been drilled in order to mount the gilt bronze time piece. Unfortunately, those drillings are visible with old screws. There are two repair holes inside the patinated bronze figure's hands. The figure has scratches and wear to the high relief of her drapery. The lefthand arm of the figure is loose at the seam and shows two horizontal cracks to the region of her elbow. The gilt bronze has tarnishing and wear. The timepiece will need to be professionally remounted to the figure. There are six drilled holes to the bottom of the clock case, and a break to the hinged door of the clock mechanism. There is a tiny chip of white enamel to the dial, beside the number 9.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Victor Paillard (d. 1886) was a sculptor and fondeur. He apprenticed under the direction of Jean-François Denière. In the 1830s, he opened his own business of Bronze d'art et d'ameublement at 105 boulevard Beaumarchais and 6 rue Saint-Claude; he was to become one of the most esteemed craftsmen of the century. Paillard exhibited at many of the major international exhibitions and was awarded a medal for his work at the 1851 Exhibition as well as a gold medal in Paris in 1867. He was a member of the juries of the international exhibitions in Paris in 1855 and 1862.