A rare French Empire polychrome ormolu figural mantel clock

7-cm ormolu dial with relief centre and Roman numerals, Breguet hands, countwheel bell striking anchor movement with silk suspended pendulum signed Pons, arched ormolu case with a bird in a niche held by an ormolu and polychrome figure of a harlequin, oval break front base with an applied relief of a man near a fireplace with his pets, the whole raised on toupee feet 

An identical clock is depicted in; F.J.  Britten, Old Clocks and Watches and their makers, London, 1932, 1971 pp. 498. Further exmples E. Niehüser, Die Französische Bronzeuhr, Munich, 1999, p. 168.; G. Negretti, P. De Vecchi, Fazination Uhr, Eine Geschichte der Zeitmessung, Munich, 1996, front cover; Tardy, French Clocks The World Over, part two, Paris, 1981, back cover. 

dial in good condition with refinished numerals (could be improved) movement in good condition and able to function, bezel with 3 unidentified holes but movement of the period and fitting well, case in good condition, the gilding intact, polychrome parts with a little rubbing, together with a pendulum and winder
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. 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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

This charming and amusing clock features a Harlequin wearing a mask and holding a Comtoise clock surmounted by a bird peeking out of its gable with the door inscribed 'l'artiste du jour. The Harlequin, a main character of the Commedia dell'Arte is depicted here in a facetious and mischevous pause, gesturing the bird not to alert the victim of an imminent trick.