$6,500
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sold
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Description
14" (36 cm.) x 14". Seated at a mahogany upright piano is an elegant bisque-headed lady
with glass inset eyes,painted lashes,feathered brows,accented nostrils,closed mouth,accented
lips,pierced ears,blonde mohair wig,carton torso and legs,wire upper arms,metal
hands,wearing fine rose silk gown with ivory trim. When keywound,an intricate series of
movements occur: the lady moves her hands along the keyboard,then pauses and plays in
place,then sweeps the board again; the action re-occurs in various time segments. Meanwhile
she turns her head from side to side,nods,and turns again,all the while music is playing.
Condition: generally excellent,mechanism functions well,two keys missing on keyboard.
Comments: Vichy,circa 1875,an early version of the lady at her piano. Value Points: the luxury
automaton is notable for fine cabinetry of piano including ivory keys,ormolu trim including
basket,and beautifully shaped stool with velvet seat; the lady wears her original frail rose silk
gown; two tunes are played.