λ  A French Regence tortoiseshell and ormolu mounted mantel clock by Baltazar Martinot

λ  A French Regence tortoiseshell and ormolu mounted mantel clock by Baltazar Martinot, the brass eight day twin train movement with turned tapering pillars and an outside countwheel, striking on a bell, the backplate signed 'A PARIS, Baltazar Martinot', the brass circular dial with enamelled Roman numerals, the centre chased with musicians, above Helios, the sun god, in his chariot, the arched case with flaming finials, above a female mask and with scrolling acanthus leaf mounts, the interior with a parquetry floor and a marquetry inlaid door, 60.8cm high, 35.5cm wide.

Baltazar Martinot (1636-1716) was born in Rouen and come from an important dynasty of Rouen watchmakers. He received his master's degree in watchmaking in Paris in 1660 and became Valet de Chambre-Horloger Ordinaire of the Queen Mother in 1665. From his connections within the Royal circle he is known to have had many prestigious clients and was considered the widest supplier of quality clocks in Paris.