Neoclassical Crystal & Brass 3-Piece Clock Garniture Set with Swag-Draped Lidded Urns

Design & Inspiration

Few objects in the classical European decorative tradition command a room quite like a garniture de cheminée — the triumvirate of matched clock and flanking urns that graced the mantels of aristocratic salons from Versailles to Vienna. This handcrafted 3-piece Neoclassical clock garniture set faithfully reproduces the refined splendor of the Louis XVI period, when architects and ébénistes alike turned away from Rococo exuberance toward the measured clarity of ancient Greece and Rome. The central clock piece rises to an imposing 63 cm, its faceted crystal body catching and refracting light like a prism, while the two matching lidded urns flank it in a procession of luminous symmetry.

Materials & Craftsmanship

Every element of this set is a testament to the goldsmith's and glassblower's art. The bodies of both urns and the central clock vase are formed from hand-cut faceted crystal, its vertical flutes and diagonal cuts creating a brilliant interplay of transparency and reflected light. The hardware — lid finials, swag-and-tassel festoon chains, acanthus-leaf mounts at the shoulders, foliate scroll supports, and the intricately chased stepped plinths — is cast in solid brass and finished to an exceptionally fine standard. Hanging between the shoulder mounts, delicate ormolu-style garland chains draped in the classical swag manner evoke the laurel wreaths and festoon motifs so beloved by Neoclassical designers. The central piece is crowned by a charming figurine finial, while the square stepped base features deeply cast swag drapery panels and scrolled bracket feet. The integrated quartz clock face is set within the base of the central vase, its dial rendered in a soft off-white enamel with fine Roman numerals — precise, legible, and period-appropriate.

Dimensions & Details

The central clock-vase stands at 63 cm tall × 36 cm wide, creating genuine visual presence on a mantel, console, or credenza. The flanking urns mirror the central piece in proportion and decorative vocabulary, ensuring a harmonious grouping. The total set weighs approximately 4 kg. All brass components are cast for weight and solidity — these are not lightweight pressed-metal pieces but substantial decorative objects with the tactile quality of heirloom furnishings. The quartz movement ensures reliable, battery-operated timekeeping without the maintenance demands of a mechanical movement.

Handcrafted in Egypt

Produced in the workshops of Brass & Wood in Egypt, this garniture set is the work of artisans trained in the traditions of European classical metalwork and crystal cutting. Egypt has long been home to extraordinary metalworking craft, and our workshops unite that heritage with the rigorous design standards of the great European decorative periods. Each set is assembled and quality-checked by hand before dispatch. Customization is available — the set can be produced in alternative brass finishes including antique gold and silver tones to complement different interior palettes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials are used in this clock garniture set?

The vase and urn bodies are hand-cut faceted crystal. All mounts, chains, finials, bases, and decorative elements are solid cast brass. The clock movement is a reliable quartz mechanism. No wood components are present in this set.

Is assembly required?

Minimal assembly is required — primarily placing the lid finials onto the urns and positioning the pieces. No tools are needed. Full placement and setup instructions are included with each set.

Can this set be customized?

Yes. Brass & Wood offers customization of the brass finish (gold, antique gold, silver) and can accommodate bespoke orders for different sizing or decorative variations. Please contact our team to discuss your requirements.