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Antique Mantle Clock Information

Mantle clocks date back to the 18th century. The overall aesthetic design of antique mantle clocks was superior to most, with figural accents in mythological, natural and classical themes. During this time period in Europe, there were talented craftsmen with particular skills in regard to making the most intricate of clock mechanisms. Mantle clocks had spring mechanisms instead of a weight mechanism that was used on most mounted wall clocks; the typical clock in existence before the advent of mantle clocks.

History
- Mantle clocks were made in 18th century France. They were often gilded in brass and bronze. On the antique brass clocks, the brass color will appear a mellow gold, with yellow hues. Accent parts on the clock face may also be made of genuine brass. Bronze mantle clocks were copper brown in color. On aged antique mantle clocks, the bronze patina may actually appear grayish blue.
Characteristics
- The base of a mantle clock is made to rest on a flat surface. The shape is often rectangular or square. Some clocks were large, with ornate detail extending from the top to bottom. The base was often made from other precious natural materials including marble, or lacquered wood.
Function
- Sometimes the base of a mantle clock is actually a continuation of the clock body itself. The body will be footed to support the overall shape of the clock. This is especially evident on mantle clocks with an hourglass shape.
Types
- Most antique mantle clocks are figural. The French made the most ornate clocks, with particular attention to detail around the clock face in regard to design. A mantle clock that is figural will have as part of the design people, mythological figures such as cupid's or angels, and animals. The most notable mythological feature and animal used was Pegasus, the flying horse.
Features
- Ornate decoration is the norm on antique clocks, made during a time when opulence was commonplace. Often there are intertwined sculpted leaves circulating a mantle clock face, and columns on either side of the clock face as part of the design. Columns may or may not be independent from detailed floral parts. Sometimes various designs were combined, such as leafy vines entwining columns from the bottom up, circulating the clock face.
Function
- A dome shape is quite common for antique mantle clocks. The removable glass dome encasing the clock mechanism protects the brass moving parts that are on display in the center of the clock. The glass dome can be easy removed to be cleaned, or replaced if it is damaged.
Value
- Antique mantle clocks range in value from $250 up into the thousands of dollars. The simplest clocks without ornate detail are the least valuable, depending on maker or rarity. On ornate pieces the size, detail and precious materials used will affect value.

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