A mantel clock with an extensive figural scene.
The shield is located on a high pedestal decorated with an ornamental composition. The corners adorn the heads of lions surrounded by palmettes and volute canals.
The whole is crowned with a figural scene depicting a pair of aristocrats. The young man tries to dissuade the lady from devoting time to reading.
Signature: Pons
France, early 19th century
Gilded bronze.
Dimensions: 66cm x 58cm x 19.5cm
The state of preservation is visible in the photos.
Pierre Honoré Pons (1773-1851) - student of the outstanding watchmaker Antide Janvier. In 1803, he opened his own workshop on rue de la Huchette, focusing on precision watchmaking. He received public recognition from the French Academy of Sciences for perfecting clock mechanisms. At the request of Count de Champagny - Napoleon's minister for industry and trade, he took over the watchmaking production of Saint Nicolas d'Aliermont.
Its products were of high quality. It was appreciated by both connoisseurs and Parisian watchmakers. In 1839 he received the Order of the Legion of Honor from King Ludwik Filip. Seven years later he retired, living in a Parisian residence at 20 rue Cassette.
