A GILT-BRONZE AND PATINATED-BRONZE CLOCK, CONSULAT, CIRCA 1802, ATTRIBUTED TO PIERRE-PHILIPPE THOMIRE |

the enamelled dial and the movement signed Levol à Paris surmounted by the figures of Paul and Virginie held by two blackamoors, on a rectangular base; (one foot missing)

Related literature:
P. Kjellberg, La pendule française, Paris, 1997, p. 358, fig. C
E. Niehüser, French Bronze Clocks, 1700-1830, Munich, 1999, pp. 151-152, figs 246 et 247
Musée François Duesberg, Brussels, 2004, p. 66

The illustration is quite accurate. As shown on the image, the clock rests directly on its base: there is a mistake in the catalogue, there is only one foot left (and not three). Some expected scratches on patina, as well as some dust and spots of oxidation on gilt bronzes. Movement seems complete but we do not guarrantee it is running. With a pendulum and a winder; the bell is detached. The dial is in good condition. Impressive model with a nice chasing which would benefit from a slight cleaning.
"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."

This impressive clock is inspired by the famous novel by Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre (1737-1814) written in 1788 recounting the story of the lovers Paul and Virginie in Mauritius. As an admirer of the author, Emperor Napoleon I commissioned Pierre-Philippe Thomire a clock with this theme as a gift for the writer in 1802. Let's take note of three comparable clocks: one is housed at the François-Duesberg Museum in Mons, Belgium, a second is from the former collection of Lady Inchyra, Christie's, London, 5 July 2001, lot 235 and a third was sold by the auctioneers Gros and Delettrez at Drouot, on 1st June  2012, lot 201.