A large ormolu Napoleonic commemorative mantel clock, French, circa 1840

4-inch enamel dial, bell striking movement wth silk suspension, the drum case flanked by an Eagle and the figure of France embracing an urn inscribed Ste. Helene, 5 Mai 1821, with a flag behind inscribed France 1840, the tiered base applied with a portrait medallion of Napoleon and inset with a plaque depicting a ship off St Helena, a recumbent lion to the front and flanked by martial trophies, raised on ribbon-tied trophy and bee supports

Dial in good condition. Movement is much in need of a clean and lacking bell and pendulum. Case retains excellent original gilding but is in need of a wash. No pendulum or winder.
"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."

This magnificent clock was produced to commemorate the 'Retour des Cendres' (return of the ashes) of Napoleon to France in 1840. Following his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo in June 1815, the French Emperor, Napoleon Bonaparte was first imprisoned and then exiled on the island of St Helena. He died there on 5th May 1821 and although he had asked to be buried in Paris, he was buried in the Valley of the Willows on St Helena.  In 1840 Louis-Phillipe obtained permission from the British for the return of Napoleon's remains to France. The remains were transported in the French frigate Belle-Poule and arrived in France on 29th November.  A state funeral was held on 15th December and the remains were held in St Jerome's Chapel until finally being entombed beneath the dome of Les Invalides in 1861.