Outstanding French Wooden Exhibition "Menagerie" from Au Nain Bleu

Live Auction

50" (127 cm.) h. x 56" w. x 18"d. An elaborately-constructed wooden exhibition zoological cage features round-front cages at either side,that are flanking three smaller flat-front cages. The entire exhibition rests upon a wooden frame fronted by silver-chained stanchions,there is definition of brick and stone work,rounded roofs,and fretwork carving. The back wall of each cage has hand-painted designs of African jungle,and has an opening door. On exhibition at the zoo are a number of exotic animals,each of paper mache with hand-painted finish and details,each with glass eyes,from 5"-9",including: brown bear,black bear,and white polar bear,four striped tigers,one spotted leopard,two puma's,and the very rare and exotic white tiger which was first recorded in the 19th century and became widely popular. Excellent condition,perfectly preserved,the Menagerie was an exhibition display model in the famous Parisian toy store of Au Nain Bleu during the mid/latter 19th century,and remained in their archives until very recent years when the store closed its doors forever.