Charlecote Park From the Dining Room - Chris Purvis The BLACK MARBLE CLOCK       This clock, which is on the table in front of the south window in the Dining Room, is a celebration of the French Republic.   It is topped by the figure on Marianne, the symbol of France, symbolising reason, liberty and the ideals of the republic.   At the front of the clock, on the left, is the figure of Vercingetorix who was Chief of the Gallic Tribes and leader of the Gallic opposition to Caesar during the Gallic War of 58-51 B.C.   To the right at the front is a soldier, probably Gallic at the time of the Gallic War.   Looking from the rear, at the left is an African Chief and on the right an Iroquois Indian Chief. These symbolise lands ruled by France.   The Black Marble Clock Marianne A Soldier Vercingetorix Iroquois Indian Chief African Chief Chris Purvis is a volunteer guide. Any comments are welcome and can be sent to num.10@btinternet.com Return to Index page