Mantel Clock “Study and Philosophy”, circa 1800
After François Rémond, inspired by Louis-Simon Boizot
This finely crafted clock features a guilloché dial framed by two allegorical figures: a young man representing Study and a young woman symbolizing Philosophy, based on models created by Louis-Simon Boizot. Above them sits a majestic eagle grasping thunderbolts. The clock rests on a white Italian marble base supported by four feet.
A comparable piece, made by clockmaker Adam Léchopié (Paris – active before 1800), is held in the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris (inv. 2014.112.26).
This iconic model was based on Boizot’s 1780 designs for the Royal Sèvres Manufactory: “Young Girl Reading” and “Young Man Writing,” later known as Study and Philosophy. The innovative idea of transforming these figures into bronze clock ornaments came from the renowned marchand-mercier Dominique Daguerre, who entrusted François Rémond with their execution, creating a new genre of mantel clock.
