The exceptional quality of the bronze work transforms this pendulum into a sculpture. The choice of the imagery of a pendulum to decorated one’s home reflected the moral virtues, even a political ideology of its owner. The mythological or historical allegory dominated and often served the imperial propaganda. This “Love guided by Fidelity” is a model that was designed by Ravrio and delivered in 1806 to the Elysée Palace which was occupied at that time by Caroline and Joachim Murat. It was very fashionable during the Empire, numerous copies were sold in Paris.
Author / School: RAVRIO André-Antoine (1759-1814) (attributed to)
Description: “The chariot of love led by fidelity, symbolized by 2 spaniels” – The wheel of the chariot forming the dial in blue enamel. Bronze chiseled and gilded – Base in antique green marble, decorated with draperies and attributes of love.