This is a very rare desk accessory. I have never seen another of these before so you would have trouble finding another quite like it.
It appears to be a highly decorative clip - which would probably have been part of a matching set. It would have always been an expensive piece as it is so beautifully made - as you can see in all my photographs.
It is French Empire in origin and dates to the 19th century.
It is a very large clip - which you would have had on your desk or bureau and used to keep documents and bills or paid invoices together. It is just so special. The frame of the clip is made of bronze - with a winged lady (which you often find on French Empire furniture as legs, etc). She is bare to the waist and has beautiful detailing on her wings and torso. Above is a crest with Classical scrolls and an Empire Eagle to the top. The back of the clip is plainer, as it would have sat on a desk, and not visible - it is made of a thick glass slab or crystal.
The clip has a coiled spring clasp and it is very sturdy and holds your papers / cash / bills etc all firmly in place. It has quite a snap to it.
Dimensions: The length is 4 3/4 inches. The width is 2 1/2 inches. The height at the widest point when it is closed and at rest - is 1 1/2 inches.
As you can see from my images - it is in very fine condition. The glass or crystal is intact with no chips or scratches - not even on the back - it might have been made by Baccarat who made similar desk ornaments such as inkwells and little pots in the 19th century. It came to me with my ice pail - which is also listed in my store. It certainly is of that quality. There is a little dulling to the ormolu gilding - but that is consistent with the age of the clip.
The rarity and quality of this clip are reflected in my asking price - probably a piece for the specialist collector of Baccarat desk accessories or French Empire inkwells.
It will be charged at £4.95 to send to you with the Royal Mail Special Next Day Delivery.