15". A paper mache ground simulating a grassy meadow and tree stump is mounted upon a wooden frame, displaying a beautiful arrangement of bisque-headed woman standing alongside a flower-filled wheelbarrow. The woman has brown glass eyes, closed mouth, brunette mohair wig, composition shoulder plate, shapely torso and legs, bisque forearms. She is dressed in beautiful silks and lace, and holds a tin watering can in her right hand, and a small posy of flowers in her left. The wheelbarrow, of woven straw, is decorated with ribbons and gilt highlights and filled with delicate fabric flowers that rest upon a hidden tin panel. Cast brass Vichy key is attached.
Movements: She turns her head to the left, tilts her head, and appears to smell the flowers she raises to her face. Then she turns her head to the right, pivots her right arm from othe elbow as though she is lifting the watering can and sprinkling the flowers. She repeats the sprinkling motion three times. At that point, the hidden tin panel in the wheelbarrow lifts, pushing the flowers upward as if they were "blooming".
Historical References: Themes of nature, particularly arrangements posed upon grassy knoll bases were favored by the Vichy firm. This superb original piece is previously undocumented, its rarity rivaled by its utter charm and delicacy. Circa 1885.