27". A paper mache headed boy is seated upon a faux-marble column that rests upon a velvet-covered base. He has brown glass eyes, open mouth, delicate mohair ringlet curls, carton torso and upper legs, hinged right knee, and bisque forearms. The boy is costumed as a young Duke, with silk jacket, vest and short pants, and velvet tricorn hat. He holds a wooden mandolin with inlay and mother-of-pearl designs. One finger tip is broken.
Movements: He nods his head toward the mandolin, he lifts his head, turns his head from side to side as though looking to see who might be listening, strums the mandolin with his right hand, and periodically taps his right foot in time to the music. The movement is nonchalant and charming.
Historical References: An exceptionally rare piece by Gustave Vichy; few other examples are known to exist. The piece was not cited in the Vichy Catalog and it was likely a special piece. Several elements are recognizable features of that maker including the faux-marble column that was used as an architectural accessory in several of his deluxe pieces including Fin de Siecle Moon. Another model, named Le Muscadin(the dandy) with duplicate rare facial model, standing in front of the same column is photographed in Les Automates by Chapuis/Droz, page 170. The two may have been part of a rare series featuring the foppish young man. circa 1890