Rare and Wonderful French Automaton

Live Auction

26" (66 cm.) Arranged upon an elegantly-shaped wooden ebonized-base are three performers,posed within a garden-like setting with a large flowering tree and grass-covered ground with little plants. A balancing acrobat bar is set in the center,and a fancily-dressed performer posed upon it,on toe-point,the balancing rod in his outstretched hands. On either side of the acrobat is a musician,namely a woman seated at a beautiful wooden harp,and a standing man with violin. When wound,the acrobat appears to walk the tight-rope,while the musicians play. Music plays. The arrangement is presented under a glass dome. Condition: generally excellent,functions well. Marks: Peters & Sons,218 Strand,London,W.E.,Manufacturers of Archery,Cricket,Croquet,Toys,and Fancy Goods (paper label on base). Comments: Phalibois,France,circa 1870,whose decorative parlor automata were favorites among the British upper class. Value Points: beautifully-preserved automaton with rare bisque head dolls,each with sculpted hair,rare harp performer,original paper label.