Rococo Gilt Brass Mantel Clock with Openwork Crest & Dragon Scroll Mounts

Design & Inspiration

Few decorative objects command a room with the same authority as a grand Rococo mantel clock. This masterful interpretation draws directly from the opulent idiom of the Louis XV era — a period defined by its rejection of rigid symmetry in favor of exuberant, nature-inspired movement. From its pierced, flame-and-foliage openwork crest to its cascading dragon scroll mounts and boldly splayed scroll feet, every surface of this clock pulses with the restless vitality that made 18th-century French decorative arts the envy of every European court.

Materials & Craftsmanship

Cast in high-quality brass and finished to an luminous warm tone, this handcrafted timepiece exemplifies the lost-wax casting tradition carried forward by Brass & Wood's artisans in Egypt. The body rises from four asymmetric scroll feet — each terminating in a rolled acanthus volute — into a swelling bombé silhouette alive with high-relief rocaille, scaled fish forms, unfurling leaves, and sinuous dragon figures that wrap around the case with theatrical drama. The crown is a pierced lattice of interlocking circles surmounted by naturalistic flames and foliage, echoing the bois de rose cartouches found on original Parisian pendules de cheminée. The oval clock face, framed by a beaded brass bezel, carries a hand-painted roman numeral dial with ornamental hands — a deliberate nod to the hand-enamelled dials of 18th-century Parisian clock-makers.

Dimensions & Details

Weighing 4 kg, this clock carries the reassuring physical presence of a genuine bronze piece. Its quartz movement ensures precise, battery-powered timekeeping with none of the maintenance demands of a mechanical calibre, making it equally suited to active daily use or as a purely decorative centrepiece. The richly textured surface catches and plays with ambient light across the day, shifting from a warm amber in morning sun to a deep burnished glow in lamplight.

Handcrafted in Egypt

Every piece that leaves the Brass & Wood atelier in Egypt is the result of skilled hands and patient craft. Our artisans apply traditional brass-casting and hand-finishing techniques — chasing, burnishing, and detail-refining each mount and scroll — to produce replicas that honour the legacy of European decorative arts without compromise. This clock is available in multiple finish variants, and custom finish options are available upon request, allowing you to match an existing collection or interior scheme.

Frequently Asked Questions

What movement does this clock use?

This mantel clock is fitted with a reliable quartz movement, requiring a standard battery. It offers precise timekeeping with no winding or mechanical servicing required.

Is this clock fragile? How should I care for it?

Due to its intricate cast brass construction and fine decorative detail, this clock should be handled with care. Dust regularly with a dry, soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners. Periodic polishing with a brass-appropriate polish will maintain its lustrous finish. Professional cleaning is recommended for deep restoration.

Can this clock be customized in a different finish?

Yes. Brass & Wood offers this clock in Gold, Silver, and Antique Gold finishes. Additional custom finishes may be arranged — please contact our team to discuss your requirements.