Ivy and Elephants: French

Monday, November 14, 2011

As Time Goes By

One thing we just don’t have enough of is time. I guess that’s why I’ve always gravitated toward clocks, watches, hourglasses, and all things related to time. My most favorite form of timepiece is the French mantle clock. I’ve a few I’d like to share, like this beauty. It has an enamel inset of angels, a pair of peacocks, and a hand painted satin glass finial. Yummy!

This design originated in France around the 1600’s. It is ormolu or gold-gilt bronze as it is known here in the U.S. The original process added high karat gold to the metal during the firing process. Many of the workers didn’t live past forty from all the metal they inhaled from the process! By the next decade, they exacted a better process. Thank heavens!

Many of the clocks we love were made by the New Haven factory that was formed in Conn. by Hiram Camp in 1853.

The company lasted over one hundred years, but finally closed its doors for good in 1960.

Many of the company’s gorgeous designs still continue to warm our hearts today, like this little guy.

Someone once inquired about my collection and asked me if they all work. In truth, I don’t know, nor do I care.

I just love them for their beauty. It speaks of a time when form was prized over function, and people ‘did’ stop to smell the roses.

I think each face with its delicate enameling and lovely gilt is a work of art.

Even the tiny hands are each unique and intricately designed.

This blown glass one with heavy gilt detail, called my name for a while until the shop owner took pity on my lusting, and a deal was made. Thanks, Ody!

Oh, this little jewel I just had to show you. Not for the watch, but for the exquisite watch holder! It’s egg shaped with a beveled glass door. But, just look at the etched glass back. Isn’t it fabulous! I bought it on eBay and didn’t even notice the etching until it arrived! I guess no one else did either; I got it for a song.

This is my little ball clock I got from the same shop. She knows how I love clocks and put it aside for me. Her shop is amazing. If you’re ever in Miami, check her out at Ody’s Antiques.

Last, what home would be complete without an anniversary clock? I got this tiny one because of the sparkle of the four crystal cubes as they spin back and forth. (You know I can’t resist the bling!)

Thanks for indulging me and giving me a moment of your “TIME” to share some of my treasures. Do you have a clock fetish, too? Tell me I'm not the only one. I’d love to hear about it.

Hugs,

Patti

We're Linking to the Following Parties:

Nifty Thrifty Tuesday @ Coastal Charm

Knick of Time Tuesday @ Knick of Time

Table Top Tuesday @ A Stroll Thru Life

Twice Owned Tuesday @ House of Grace

Club G.W. @ Charm Bracelet Diva

One Project at a Time @ A Bowl Full of Lemons

Anything Goes @ Type A

Tuesday's Treasures @ My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia

Primp Yourself Wednesday @ Primp