312 - CARLO ROSSI

CARLO ROSSI UNIQUE MANTEL CLOCK WITH SOLAR ALLEGORY. MODEL ATTRIBUTED TO CARLO ROSSI RUSSIAN EMPIRE, SAINT PETERSBURG, PERIOD OF NICHOLAS I, 1825-1855. A monumental mantel clock of the Late Russian Empire style, conceived within the artistic system associated with the design models of Carlo Rossi (1775-1849). The architectonics of the work are constructed upon a strict vertical axis and imbued with solar symbolism characteristic of court art of the 1830s-1840s. The composition is formed by two volumes of deep sapphire cobalt glass attributed to the Imperial Glass Factory of Saint Petersburg. The lower massive cylindrical body is decorated with a deeply cut diagonal spiral faceting, creating a dynamic effect of flowing water and the passage of time. The plastic rhythm of the glass reinforces the leitmotif of the wave as a symbol of continuity and eternal circulation. The central section features a gilt dial with Roman numerals, surrounded by a wreath of stylized vegetal ornament and a radiant solar composition. Two allegorical figures, male and female, support the upper vessel. Their gestures are directed toward the source of light, forming a cosmogonic image of the luminary rising from the waters. The iconography relates to the theme of Helios and the symbolism of Alpha and Omega, affirming harmony, love and fertility. The upper section takes the form of a cobalt glass vase crowned with an openwork gilt bronze frieze enriched with vegetal and solar motifs. The bronze elements display refined chasing and high-quality fire gilding characteristic of Saint Petersburg workshops of the first half of the nineteenth century. Marks: Not found. Dimensions: Height: 43 cm; Width: 30 cm; Depth: 20 cm. Material: Gilt and polished bronze; cobalt glass attributed to the Imperial Glass Factory; clock mechanism with pendulum. Condition: Good. Even gilding. Minor wear to the base. Minor micro-chips to the pedestal of the glass section, not affecting the overall visual integrity or structural stability of the piece. Provenance: Private European collection. Literature: Igor Sychev. Russian Lighting Fixtures of the Classical Period. 1760-1830. Moscow, P.V.B.R., 2003, illustrations 116, 189, 279, 305, 635, 795, 844, 845, 866, 868. Width: 30cm, Height: 43cm, Depth: 20cm, Weight: 10kg, Condition: Good, with traces of use, Material: GLASS, Gilded bronze, ID: ID-ANTQ-3512