Clocks

large folio (635 x 520mm.), 137 sheets of lithographed plates, some with multiple images pasted to each sheet, some single plates (some folding), a few printed in sepia, nineteenth-century navy cloth with green paper corners, lettered "Pendules. Composition no.1" on upper cover, some detached, one browned, a few with stains or tears; sold as a volume of plates not subject to return

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
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."

This album includes designs by Sorner, Leclère and Lelievre (printed by Lemercier, Ducreux, Lanoue, Plista and others) and show decorative clock surrounds with allegorical, mythical, historical and contemporary figures, from Plutarch to Lord Byron, together with rural and religious scenes. Most of the plates have labels describing the prices of the different materials for the clock surround, so it is probable that this album was one of a set used by a clockmaker for his clients to choose the surround of their choice.