This is a Victorian novelty clock by early clockmaker/inventor, Eugene Farcot. It features a duplex escapement - two escape wheels with half-moon pallets, allowing forward and backward motion instead of usual side to side motion of the pendulum; pendulum is a cherub on a swing. This escapement was patented in 1862 by Farcot and there are several versions of the swinging cherub clock. The case of this clock is made of alabaster, simple drum/scroll design with some brass ornament; it is not glazed front or back (as with all of these clocks).  Alabaster is a delicate mineral and this case has some minor scratches and what seems to be a small crack across the thin top slab of the base; it has not been restored but there are special methods for refurbishing the delicate alabaster surface. The movement is complete; was recently cleaned and oiled and it does run but will need some adjustment for timekeeping. We had it running for several days of bench testing; setting beat is tricky with this escapement (patience required). The previous owner said a new mainspring was installed; the new suspension spring seemed okay during brief run. The backplate has the Farcot logo and serial number 41 8368. The porcelain Roman dial is a ring which gives a skeletonized view of the works; there is a very fine, barely visible hairline at minute 38; the open spade hands are original. Overall, this is a nice example of a rare novelty clock by a renowned 19th century French clockmaker. It was not designed to be highly accurate but interesting to watch.