The dial of this French clock replicates the centre of a sunflower, a symbol used by the Sun King, Louis XIV of France. The clock is surrounded by porcelain flowers on stems, and each flower is accompanied by the correct leaves.  The stems are removable, and it is possible that the porcelain flowers were used only in the winter months, being replaced by real specimens during the summer.  George IV (1762-1830), who was an ardent admirer of French works of art, acquired this clock in 1819.