Extremely rare antique French Empire ormolu and patinated bronze au négre portefaix mantel clock signed in the bronze Alibert with two tune musical base also signed Alibert. This model is based on a design by Jean Andre Reiche This model stands on a superb burr maple veneered base, inset with mother of pearl & contains an early two tune pull wind musical box numbered 2890. The mother of pearl plaque signed in script "Changer" and "Jouer" and then below "Alibert a Paris". A choice of two airs can be played via a 2.5 inch pinned cylinder and a tuned steel comb to interior, the exterior with pull-wind cord to right hand side This blackamoor has fine enamel eyes, wears a rimmed hat, jacket and pantaloons, is captured in a striding pose, carrying an envelope and using a walking cane, whilst transporting a tied cotton bale housing the timepiece movement on his back. The stepped sarcophagus form base has a fine mount showing three cherubs aboard a punt, whilst the clock sits on four fine ormolu toupee feet. The fine convex, white enamel dial with arabic numerals, is driven by a fine fusee movement. The mercury, fire gilded ormolu is entirely original, and the clock is signed on the case Alibert a Paris. Tardy has Francois Alibert working in Paris, Rue J.J. Rouseau from 1812 -30. The clock is 26cm (10.25ins) high; the clock and base 32cm (12.5ins) high overall. France circa 1812