Very Rare and All-Original French

Live Auction

17" (43 cm.) Posed standing upon a tinplate platform with three spoked wheels,is a bisque- head lady with pale complexion,blue glass eyes,painted lashes and feathered brows,accented nostrils,closed mouth,blushed cheeks,pierced ears,on carton torso and legs,shapely bosom and waist,metal hands,paper mache modeled boots. The lady doll is wearing her original elaborate silk and velvet costume with detailed brass buttons,applique trim,dainty matching bonnet. When wound,the base revolves around and moves forward,the lady nods and turns her head and moves her right arm up and down as though firing the pistol she holds; an actual "shot" is heard from the pistol. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: G. Vichy Fils Paris (on base). Comments: Gustav Vichy,Paris,circa 1865,with bisque head from Barrois. The lady represents the Vivandiere of the French Zouave regiments,her purpose to bring nursing aid to wounded soldiers in battle. The costumes of Vivandieres echoed the uniforms of the regiments they served and nearly always included a signature canteen filled,presumably,with wine. Value Points: very rare and exquisite presentation with beautiful face,wonderfully preserved original costume with silk medallion,gilt metal canteen and pistol,original wig,bonnet,earrings,and Vichy label; a very rare large size of the seldom found historical automaton.