Raingo Ormolu Cartel Clock
France
19th Century
Maker: Raingo
Cm 105 high x 55 wide x 15 deep
Exhibiting the fine design and craftsmanship of French clockmakers Raingo Frères (Raingo Brothers), this impressively large clock, measuring over 1 meter tall ( 3 feet +), is an example of the “Second Rococo” period beginning circa 1830, when the highly ornate "Cartel" style of the early 18th century came back into fashion. The clock is crowned at top center by the figure of a putto or cherub, holding in one hand a dove and the other a garland of flowers. This allegorical figure can represent innocence or purity, and was a popular subject for sculptors of the 19th century. The term "Cartel clock" comes from the French "Pendule à Cartel" meaning roughly "clock in a frame for the wall" - the word "Cartel" meaning in this context "decorative frame". These clocks were almost always made from gilt bronze (also known as "ormolu") and highly decorated.
The clock is complete and includes a winding key, and will be checked by our specialist clockmaker to ensure it is functioning properly before shipping.
Established in the early 1800s, Raingo Frères was one of the leading makers of precision clocks and astronomical “orrerey” devices during the French Empire and Restoration Periods. The company was based in Paris and run by the four Raingo brothers. The company added bronzes to their catalog, specializing in the reproduction of Classic arts, and they also collaborated with renowned contemporary artists such as Pradier, Carrier-Belleuse and Auguste Moreau. They also worked with prestigious cabinet makers of the time, in particular François Linke. In 1860, this house produced garnitures and table pieces for the apartments of the Emperor Napoleon III (now in the Louvre) and created a large number of collectors items. La Maison Raingo Frères participated at universal Exhibitions in 1867, 1878 and 1889 and each time obtained medals; a gold one in 1889.
