A Large French Gilt Bronze Figural Mantel Clock After Jean-François-Théodore Gechter (1796-1844)

Circa 1900

the equestrian group depicting Charles Martel Fighting Abderame, King of the Saracens after the 1840 model, inscribed T. GECHTER; raised on a walnut and gilt bronze base; with a Brocot escapement and eight-day movement striking on a bell.
Height overall 29 3/4 x width of base 21 3/8 inches.

Property from the Estate of Michael L. Wilkie, Chicago, Illinois

Provenance:

Donrose Galleries, Inc., Chicago

Michael L. Wilkie (1941-2021) was the owner of one of the most renowned penthouses in both Chicago and the nation. Recently offered for sale for the first time in nearly fifty years, the penthouse occupies the entire top floor and roof terrace of 1500 Lake Shore Drive, which was built in 1927 by celebrated architect Rosario Candela.

Wilkie, who grew up in Long Grove, Illinois as well as Montecito, California, played a critical role in expanding his family business, the DoALL Company, which came to include over 70 companies around the globe. His father, Leighton A. Wilkie, founded DoALL and invented the metal-cutting bandsaw, one of the most widely used tools in manufacturing today. Michael Wilkie worked for and ran the business for 60 years.

Photos courtesy of Andrew Miller and The Baines Group, Jameson | Sotheby's International Realty.

End of hour hand broken off. Lacking pendulum. Height of sculpture (excluding base) 19 x width 17 1/8 inches.

Having a somewhat dull gold patina with slight unevenness. Few scattered verdigris patinated areas throughout. The clock base has been re-gilded. The wood base with some chips and wear, The bronze mountings with a spotted appearance from uneven patina. Areas of delamination to the veneer along the base of the base. The clock is not running and needs repair. Retains pendulum, but lacking key. The hands of the clock dial are broken and need to be replaced. The enamel of the dial has some spots and discoloration. Additional images available upon request.

Condition reports are available upon request. All lots are sold “as is,” in the condition they are in at the time of the auction. The physical condition of lots can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration. Prospective buyers are strongly advised to inspect a lot personally or through a knowledgeable representative prior to bidding. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. Prospective buyers must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction, and it is the responsibility of the buyer to ensure that they have requested, received and considered any condition report.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

European Furniture & Decorative Arts

A Large French Gilt Bronze Figural Mantel Clock After Jean-François-Théodore Gechter (1796-1844)

Lot Description

Condition Report

Preview

Auction Contact

Shipping | Pickup