An American silver mantle clock, Gorham Mfg. Co., Providence, RI, circa 1889

the architectural case with Corinthian columns at the angles and chased with scrolling foliage, masks, and floral medallions on matted ground, surmounted by a tiled roof and openwork gallery, the gilt dial with stylized Arabic numerals, the French movement marked A1

two of the gallery posts loose and small piece of foliate gallery broken off and needs to be reattached, hinged glass door to movement on back with 1 in. long chip to edge, hands with small losses to black enameling, some minor dings throughout, otherwise good
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.

This Gothic style clock appears in a Gorham booklet in English and French, almost certainly published to compliment Gorham’s display at the 1889 Paris Exposition.  The volume of text and photos, entitled “Choice Examples of Sterling Silver Ware: The productions of the Gorham M’f’g Co: Silversmiths” proclaimed “The specimens here submitted to the world’s criticism are offered as examples of American taste in the art of design, and skill in the manipulation of metal.” 

Unlike Tiffany, Gorham had not participated in the 1878 Paris exposition, so the 1889 fair - dominated by the Eiffel tower - was their first opportunity to make an impression on the European market.  They succeeded, winning a gold medal and making it clear that American firms were becoming a force to be reckoned with.