65 - PIERRE LEURTIER, PARIS

PIERRE LEURTIER, PARIS "The Abduction of Europa," circa 1760 A large mantel clock in gilded bronze and black-patinated bronze, featuring a bull supporting a white enameled dial with Roman numerals, signed “Pre Leurtier à Paris,” topped by a female figure sculpted in gilded bronze. Dimensions: 51 x 36 x 16 cm The subject matter is inspired by the famous episode from Greek mythology, “The Abduction of Europa”—the moment when Zeus, enamored with the beautiful Phoenician princess, transforms himself into a white bull to seduce her and carry her away on his back to Crete. This theme, beloved by 18th-century artists and patrons, offers the bronze sculptor the opportunity to create a composition of great originality and remarkable dynamism. The Leurtier firm was one of the most renowned Parisian watchmaking houses of the 18th century, whose creations are featured in major European museum and private collections. The presence of its signature on the dial serves as further proof of the quality and authenticity of this exceptional piece.