$20,000
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sold

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Description
18" (46 cm.) Seated on the edge of velvet-covered box with metallic fringe edge is a figure presented as an aristocratic Monkey Marquis, having paper mache head with shaded complexion, brown glass eyes, hinged jaw with row of lower teeth and two upper fangs, white mohair wig, carton torso and legs in seated pose, wire upper arms, paper mache hands. The Marquis is attached to a beautifully carved wooden harp with gilt and cobalt blue painting, and he is costumed elegantly as an aristocrat, with silver lorgnette, in rich silk and lace with brass buttons, and with bicorn hat, pocket watch, black stockings, and shoes. When wound, he nods and turns his head, blinks his eyes, chatters by opening and closing his mouth, and plays the harp with both hands, while music plays. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: French, circa 1880, attributed to Roullet & Decamps. Value Points: wonderful presentation of the charming automaton in beautifully preserved condition.