Paul Sormani

The large well-cast gilt-bronze case is a testament to love. It depicts cupids frolicking amongst several symbols of love including the eternal torch, a flower garland and kissing doves. They are all supported on a paneled base that is adorned with flowing foliage, stands on six decorative feet and sits upon a variegated marble base.

The large white Porcelain dial has black Arabic numbers for the hours, red fifteen-minute marks, gold five minute dots, elaborately pierced and finished hands, the fast/slow out the front and is signed ‘P Sormani, Paris’.

The large high quality eight-day time and strike movement has a Brocot escapement, is stamped ‘24670’ and strikes on a bell.

Paul Sormani, 1817-1877, was born in Venice and established himself in Paris by the middle of 19th century. He specialized in creating furniture and works of art mainly in the Louis XV and Louis XVI styles. He exhibited at many Expositions Universelles where he received numerous awards. After his death in 1877 his wife and son took over the business and later moved it to 134, Boulevard Haussmann. From this date onwards pieces are normally signed “Veuve Sormani & Fils”.