René Lalique
Rare "Douze Hirondelles" Cire Perdue Mantel Clock
Authenticity guarantee
What is guaranteed?
René Lalique
Rare "Douze Hirondelles" Cire Perdue Mantel Clock
circa 1922
the hardware produced by Léon Hatot, Paris
cire perdue with brown patina, silvered metal
the glass numbered 353-22 in the glass, the hardware impressed LEON HATOT/FABRICANTS/PARIS FRANCE and numbered 102135
15 x 10¼ x 7 in. (38.1 x 26 x 17.7 cm)
Overall in very good condition. This particularly rare mantel clock exhibits Lalique’s unparalleled skills in glassmaking and is enriched with a beautifully executed `hirondelles' motif. The raised bird decorations are in well-preserved condition and enhanced with a subtle brown patina. There is a small, shallow shell-shaped chip on the right upright edge of the clock approximately 1 in. above the upper bird's wing. The glass presents with very minor irregularities and minute glass bubbles throughout inherent to the making. Two lower corners of the glass piece on the back as well as the front left (facing) lower corner with some abrasions and small chips to the glass, which are visible when the piece is installed on the base. The metal base presents with some very fine scratches and small dings to the edges consistent with gentle use. The clock face has some wear and small losses to the black enamel. Functionality of movement and electrical components is not guaranteed and Sotheby’s recommends having the piece inspected by a licensed professional.
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.
Marc and Marie-Claude Lalique, Lalique par Lalique, Paris, 1977, p. 179 (for a period photograph of the model)
Félix Marcilhac, René Lalique 1860-1945: Maître-Verrier, Analyse de l'Œuvre et Catalogue Raisonné, Paris, 2004, p. 195