Love and Innocence

Unknown

ca. 1820–25 · Gilt bronze, enamel · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

This clock representing Love and Innocence corresponds closely to a watercolor drawing in the Museum’s collection (67.548.3). This drawing may have formed part of the catalogue of models belonging to a bronze caster to be shown to prospective clients. would have been executed in gilt bronze and a number of clocks of this model are known. As indicated by the yellow wash, the entire case The winged cupid holding a lyre symbolizes love while the seated female with her arms crossed over her chest is emblematic of innocence. The front of the plinth, decorated with a relief of flaming torches, billing doves and embracing figures further emphasizes the theme of love.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1820–25

Medium

Gilt bronze, enamel

Culture

French

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Purchase, Gift of Irwin Untermyer, by exchange, 1981