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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.
Carlo Rossi (1775-1849) was a central figure in shaping the artistic image of Saint Petersburg during the reigns of Alexander I and Nicholas I. His activity extended far beyond architectural ensembles and encompassed comprehensive interior design. In the Mikhailovsky Palace, the General Staff Building and the Alexandrinsky Theatre, Rossi created holistic artistic programs that included furniture, lighting fixtures, clocks, bronze decorative elements and glass objects.
The architect determined not only the spatial organization of halls but also their decorative furnishings. Archival documents confirm his involvement in designing models for vases, candelabra and mantel garnitures. Rossi collaborated closely with court bronze foundries responsible for fire gilding and sculptural modeling, as well as with the Imperial Glass Factory, which supplied colored artistic glass for palace interiors.
During the 1820s-1840s the Imperial Glass Factory achieved an outstanding level in the production of cobalt glass distinguished by depth of color and high transparency. Cooperation between architects and the factory enabled the creation of objects in which glass and bronze formed a unified artistic organism. Such integration is characteristic of the Late Russian Empire style, which sought a synthesis of architecture, sculpture and decorative art.
The solar symbolism present in this clock corresponds to the ideological program of the reign of Nicholas I, in which the theme of light and order acquired state significance. The radiant decoration of the dial and the dynamic spiral faceting of the glass resonate with Rossi’s architectural principles, where axial symmetry, proportional harmony and allegorical imagery defined the canon of imperial interior design. Mantel clocks of this type often became the compositional focal point of the fireplace wall, reinforcing the ceremonial character of the space.
Thus, the present work reflects the principles of Rossi’s school of interior design and demonstrates the high level of interaction between Saint Petersburg bronze casting and artistic glass production in the first half of the nineteenth century.
The mechanism is in working order and has undergone professional servicing. The glass retains its full form without cracks. Minor micro-chips to the lower pedestal of the glass section are barely visible and insignificant. The gilding remains stable with natural signs of age. The overall structure is solid and stable.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
