All-Original French Mechanical Cyclist in Rare Grand Size and with Portrait Face by Vichy

Live Auction

16" (41 cm.) A cast metal tricycle with unusual curved wheel spokes has a fancily curved front design, bone-tipped handle grips, with original red and gold finish, and brass framed lantern. Seated upon the tricycle is a bisque-headed doll with oval-shaped face, blue glass eyes, painted lashes, feathered brows, accented nostrils and eye corners, closed mouth with accent line, blonde mohair wig, carton torso, wire upper arms and legs, paper mache boots, carved wooden hands, wearing original silk and black velvet costume with matching velvet toque and lorgnette. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: attributed to Vichy, circa 1870, a mechanism is hidden beneath the rider, and when wound, the tricycle propels forward and in circles while the rider turns her head, arms and appears to "pedal". Value Points: luxury all-original toy is beautifully-preserved, in rare grand size, and having superb portrait like face.