Racing into our sale tomorrow. Don’t miss our Fine Clocks, Barometers and Scientific Instruments | 20 February | 10.30am.
Pictured is lot 111, a French Empire style gilt bronze figural mantel clock.
The casing of this clock is modelled as the Chariot of Telemachus after the model by Jean-André Reiche (1752-1817). It features a slipper-shaped chariot or biga driven by Telemachus whilst under the protection of Athena, the chariot wheel forming the silvered chapter ring. The subject is sometimes incorrectly referred to as ‘The Chariot of Apollo’ or ‘The Chariot of Diomedes’ – however we know that the original drawing by Reiche survives in the Bibliotheque National de France in Paris under the original title ‘Char de Telemaque’. Many examples survive of early 19th century models such as one held in the Spanish Royal Collection.
Browse the catalogue:
www.dreweatts.com/auctions/sale-details/?saleId=14120