405 - LARGE EMPIRE-STYLE FIGURINE CLOCK WITH A READING MUSE France. Late 19th century. Bronze, patinated and fire-gilded. The case, shaped like a pillar, rests on a stepped, rectangular base. The front of the base is richly decorated with applied, gilded laurel garlands and bow motifs, flanked by rosettes. The plinth features a frieze of stylized leaf motifs. Perched atop the pillar-shaped case is a fully sculpted, dark-patinated bronze figure of a classical-style female figure (a muse or allegory of learning). She is draped in flowing robes and, while reading an open book, leans on the clock case. The gilded book rests on a laurel wreath. The figure captivates with its detailed craftsmanship, particularly the hairstyle with its artful bun. Fire-gilded dial with fine guilloché work in the center, Roman hour numerals, and blued Breguet hands. The bezel is decorated with a dense laurel wreath relief. Below the dial is a gilded appliqué featuring plant tendrils. French pendulum movement with a string-suspended pendulum. Half-hour and hour chimes on a bell. The movement is fully functional. The pendulum and key are included. H: 50 cm. Signs of age; gilding slightly worn in places; the figure’s patina is well preserved. NOT SUITABLE FOR SHIPPING—PICKUP ONLY!