A RARE LOUIS XVI ORMOLU MANTEL CLOCK circa 1780, the dial signed Lepaute Hger. du Roi

on a later gilt bronze-mounted ebony base.

Edouard Larcarde, Paris, April 2, 1957, lot 67

Dial with small, approx. 7mm. by 7mm., chip to enamel at winding hole. Ormolui with very minor rubbing at edges and very minor spots of oxidation. Hinge of backplate partially broken; recommend restoration. One putti slightly loose. Ebony base with some finae cracks, abrasions and minor dents. Base refinished and with small restorations to surface. Ormolu pearl band mount very slightly bent in a few areas. In very good condition.
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.

The only other known example of this model was delivered in 1799 to the Comte d'Artois for the Salon at the Pavillon de Bagatelle and later moved to the Palais du Temple. Placed on the chimneypiece, it is precisely described by Jean-Baptiste Lepaute in a mémoire and cost 5,000 livres. The only difference in the ormolu between the two clocks is the laurel garland on the front of the present clock which replaced the garland of flowers and fruit on the Artois clock.  The Artois clock was seized in 1792 from the Temple and sent to the Maison L'Infantado. In 1807 it was given by Napoleon to Regis de Cambaceres Archichancelier of the Empire.