Late Louis XIV Period Mantel Clock

A very similar clock was part of the collection of the Chinese Imperial Court and is now in the Palace Museum, Beijing.

This clock reflects a period of changing style. the move from the architectural look of the earlier pendules religieuses and now includes sculptural features, including the figures of the signature cartouche, the unicorn motif on the bottom corners, and the angel Gabriel atop the case. The case’s flared sides and curved top make it easier to appreciate the decoration from all angles.

Francois Rabby was appointed Horologist to the Duchess of Orleans in 1686. He became a master clockmaker between that year and 1688. He had several other prestigious clients, including the Duchess of Maine and the rococo painter Nicolas de Largillière.