89 - André-Charles BOULLE (1642–1732), attributed to,

André-Charles BOULLE (1642–1732), attributed to, Jean BERAIN (1640–1711), after a model by Large cartel known as the “Harpies,” in tortoiseshell and brass marquetry and chiseled and gilded bronze, with rich acanthus leaf decoration flanked at the corners by four putti, surmounted by a gallery decorated with interlacing patterns, and a putto seated on a goat. The side panels are adorned at the top with espagnolettes ending in leaf-motif bases with scrollwork, surmounted by harpies with outstretched wings. The central glazed panel is adorned with a bronze figure representing Scylla, daughter of Nisos, accompanied by a stork. The circular dial has a gilded brass background and enamel cartouches with Roman numerals for the hours. The movement and dial are signed “Pia” in Paris. The clock case rests on a lamp base made of copper and tortoiseshell marquetry, adorned with four consoles ending in scrollwork and decorated with laurel-wreathed masks. They converge on a gilded bronze console adorned with acanthus leaves ending in a large seed. Early 18th century Height: 120 cm; Width: 46 cm; Depth: 25 cm (Restorations) Note. This clock is inspired by a drawing by Jean Bérain created around 1680 and held at the National Library. Several models featuring harpies are known: -Collection of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Windsor Castle -Vaux-le-Vicomte – clock crowned by a putto -Laura Collection, Sotheby’s auction, Paris, June 27, 2001, lot 12 -Christie’s auction, New York, May 19, 1988, lot 72 -Goncalvez Collection, Sotheby’s auction, Monaco, February 5, 1978, lot 68 -Collection of the 5th Earl of Rosebery, Mentmore, Sotheby’s auction, May 18, 1977, lot 15 -Rothschild Collection, Sotheby’s auction, London, November 24, 1972 -Delorme-Collin du Bocage auction, December 16, 2009, lot 182 -Sotheby’s auction, Paris, April 14, 2010, lot 28 Bibliography: -P. Kjellberg, “Encyclopédie de la Pendule Française,” published by L’Amateur: a clock of similar design from the Louis XIV period is illustrated on page 46, plate B. A clock with harpy-shaped feet from the late Louis XIV period is also illustrated on page 49, plate B.