309. 309W Louis XV period gilt bronze figurative clock by L. Goret, Paris A fine and rare mid-18th century French ormolu mantel clock L. Goret, Paris The highly elaborate rococo case cast with scrolls, ribbons and stylised organic forms; two figures with clubs climb the sides of the clock in pursuit of a well dressed moustachioed character about to jump into a stretched blanket held by two men below; a turbanned character looks on from the rear right, to the rear left a wrapped package (perhaps a full purse?) hangs to the side. The sides are pierced with flowers and leaves backed in red silk. The signed 7.5 inch white enamel dial with large Roman and Arabic numerals framing the concentric date dial, with pierced gilt and blued steel hands. Large twin train movement signed Louis Goret a Paris with anchor escapement, silk suspension and a solid outside numbered countwheel strike on a bell, protected by a solid hinged door. 50cms (19.5ins) high. This remarkable case is related to a similar clock in the Wallace Collection, London, signed Furet, Paris, and dated to circa 1745-50. The composition is very similar, using five characters from the Commedia dell'arte to the front. Their example sits on four tall scroll supports, the rear left being mounted with a tambourine, whereas the current lot has a heavy bag in the same position. Comparative Literature The Wallace Collection catalogue of Furniture, Part One, London, 1996, p.397, F90.