Mantel clock 1740 - 1754

This ornate mantel clock, created by Julien Le Roy between 1740 and 1754, exemplifies the Rococo style. The clock is adorned with a porcelain tree featuring delicate, colorful flowers and a figure of a Chinese deity, likely a representation of the Buddha. The Rococo period was characterized by a love for the decorative and whimsical, evident in the clock’s intricate details. The clock’s design reflects the growing interest in Chinese art and culture during the 18th century, known as Chinoiserie. This piece now resides at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, NY, showcasing its enduring artistic significance.