$850
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sold
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Description
7" (18 cm.) x 9". The wooden-framed box has paper cover and glass front which covers a lithographed ballroom scene which is fronted by three die-cut paper dancing people that are dimensionally attached. The mechanical action, i.e. the dolls dancing, is created by funneling of sand which is hidden inside the box. The paper label at the back instructs the user to hold the box perpendicular while turning counterclockwise twice, and, if all else fails, tap the top of the box with the palm of one's hand! Marks: Robert Link (paper label). Comments: American, circa 1880, a series of mechanical sand toys were offered by his firm. Value Points: well-preserved toy, with label "Mechanical Box with automaton" and instructions, functioning well.