French tortoiseshell

I worked on this clock today, a fine mid 19th century striking tortoiseshell clock by Vincenti.  The clock has a standard high quality mechanism but it more interesting for its case.  Tortoiseshell became popular after the tortoiseshell marquetry on fine French furniture produced by André Charles Boulle. In 1672, Boulle rose from master cabinetmaker to ébéniste du roi, royal cabinetmaker and sculptor to King Louis XIV, known as the “Sun King.” That same year, the king granted him the royal privilege of lodging in the Palais du Louvre. This position allowed Boulle to produce furniture as well as works in gilt bronze, such as chandeliers, wall lights, and mounts for furniture.