French Empire Hannibal Pierre Honore Pons Cesars Ormolu Bronze Mantel Clock 1815

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Antique French Empire Hannibal Barca Ormolu and Patinated Bronze Mantel Clock

An exceptional early 19th-century French Empire mantel clock depicting Hannibal Barca, the celebrated Carthaginian military commander. This monumental architectural clock is crafted from finely chased gilt bronze and contrasting dark patinated bronze, with elaborate military trophies and references to Hannibal’s great victories.

The figure of Hannibal stands beside the clock case wearing classical military armor and a draped cloak. His helmet, shield, spear and scabbard are arranged to the left, while the rectangular base is ornamented with applied military trophies, weapons, shields and anthemion borders.

The front incorporates plaques commemorate Hannibal’s decisive victories at Trebia in 218 B.C., Lake Trasimene in 217 B.C. and Cannae in 216 B.C.

The clock retains a period French movement stamped:

PONS
Serial No. 701

The mark identifies the movement with the workshop of renowned French horologist Pierre-Honoré-César Pons, one of the most important makers of French clock movements during the first half of the 19th century. Pons is documented as an influential French clockmaker whose movements were used in high-quality Parisian mantel clocks. ([link removed by ])

The movement appears complete and retains its traditional silk-suspension pendulum. A winding key and pendulum are included.

The clock has not been tested for operation and is therefore being sold as-is and not working. Although it appears to be in excellent overall physical condition, servicing, adjustment or restoration may be required before use.

This design is closely related to the celebrated Hannibal mantel clock displayed in the Blue Room of the White House in Washington, D.C.

The White House Historical Association identifies its Hannibal clock as a French gilt-bronze example with a case by Denière et Matelin, acquired as one of a pair by President James Monroe in 1817 while the Executive Mansion was being refurnished after the War of 1812. (WHHA (en-US))

The present clock represents the same historically important French Empire Hannibal model. No claim is made that it is the actual White House clock or that its bronze case was made by Denière et Matelin. The specific bronzier responsible for this example has not been definitively identified.

The exceptionally detailed gilt and patinated bronze case is consistent with production by one of the prominent Parisian bronze workshops active during the French Empire and Restoration periods.

Possible workshops associated with clocks of this quality and type include:

• Denière et Matelin

• Pierre-Philippe Thomire

• Claude Galle

• André-Antoine Ravrio

• Jean-Jacques Feuchère

This attribution remains stylistic unless additional foundry marks or archival documentation are discovered.

Early 19th century, French Empire to early Restoration period

Approximately 1810–1825.

The earlier Empire-style case may possibly predate or have been paired with the Pons movement during the period. The precise manufacturing date requires specialist examination of the movement, escapement, suspension and bronze associated with Pierre-Honoré-César Pons.

• Height: 19 inches

• Width: 15 inches

• Depth: 5.25 bronze / ormolu

• Dark patinated bronze

• Brass and steel clock movement

• Silk-suspension matte and burnished gilt-bronze surfaces with dark patinated bronze figural and military elements.

  Pattern and Decoration

  French Empire military and Neoclassical decoration featuring Hannibal Barca, Roman-style armor, helmet, shield, spear, scabbard, laurel wreaths, anthemion borders and military trophies.

  Condition Report

  The clock appears to be in excellent antique condition considering its age.

  • No major losses observed

  • Strong overall gilt and patinated finish

  • Movement appears complete

  • Original-style silk-suspension pendulum included

  • Winding key included

  • Expected age-related surface wear, oxidation, discoloration and minor marks

  • The dial and hands exhibit appropriate age-related wear

  • Clock has not been tested

  • Sold as not working and as-is

  • Mechanical servicing should be anticipated

  No guarantee is made regarding accuracy, duration of operation or future mechanical performance. Buyers should have the clock inspected and serviced by a qualified antique-clock specialist before operation.

  Please examine all photographs closely, as they form an important part of the condition report.

  Provenance

  Purchased in Belgium in 2025 from a reputable horological dealer.

  Inspection and Pick-Up

  The clock is located at:

  Flemington, New Jersey

  Interested buyers are welcome to arrange an in-person inspection by appointment before purchasing.

  Packing

  Due to the clock’s age, weight and delicate bronze and mechanical components, it will be professionally packed with the pendulum, key and removable accessories secured separately.

  Shipping Information

  Local pickup is strongly welcomed.

  Professional insured shipping or blanket-wrap delivery may be arranged depending on the buyer’s location. The pendulum and other removable components must be removed before transportation.

  International buyers are responsible for customs duties, import taxes and destination-country requirements.

  Important Attribution Notice

  The PONS stamp supports attribution of the clock movement to the Pons workshop. The Hannibal design is closely related to the example displayed in the White House Blue Room, but the present clock has not been documented as part of the White House collection or as the exact sister clock acquired by President Monroe.

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  French Empire Hannibal Pierre Honore Pons Cesars Ormolu Bronze Mantel Clock 1815:
  $27440.00

  
  
  
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