Fine French Animated "Scene at the Farm" with Movements, Clock and Music

Live Auction

13" (33 cm.) h. x 16"w. An original wooden frame with patinated and gold leaf accents surrounds a set-back lithographed scene with various cut-out persons, animals and accessories set dimensionally and connected to wires which give them animation when wound at the side: the blacksmith cobbles the horse, a little boy tosses a stick for his dog to fetch, a man sharpens a knife, chickens peck for food, in all a series of 14 different movements. In the background are mountains, a lake and various buildings including the town hall with a working porcelain-faced clock and second dial with sounding wake alarm. There are separate keys for clock winding and mechanical movements, and a pull-string activates the beautiful music. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: French, circa 1870. Value Points: rare animated scene with movements, clock, alarm and music, in wonderfully-preserved condition, especially desirable in this petite size.