A fine and rare ormolu and patinated bronze 'bon sauvage' mantel clock depicting the story of Atala and Chactas, French

3-inch enamel dial, bell striking movement with outside count wheel and silk suspension, the drum draped with a lions pelt and mounted beside a tree from which Atala is untying Chactas, a spear and flintlock gun to the side, on an octagonal plinth base set with a plaque depicting Chactas carrying the body of Atala to her burial accompanied by Father Aubry, on toupie feet

Dial with hair crack between IX and X. Movement appears to be complete but is much in need of a clean. Case has some rubbing to gilding and loss of patination to the legs of the Chactas figure, other dirt and marks throughout. With a winder but no pendulum
"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."

Atala was written in 1801 by Francois-René de Chateaubriand and, set in Louisiana, tells the story of a Christian American Indian maiden, Atala, who frees the Indian brave Chactas from his enemies. Having found refuge in the cave of the hermit, Father Aubry, Atala poisons herself when she fears she is falling in love with Chactas. Grief-stricken by her death, Chactas vows to become a Christian.