An ebonized wooden stage with velvet cover serves to display an elaborate bronze construction with Grecian style columns and an elaborate performing balancing bar as centerpiece. A porcelain face clock is suspended from the performing platform and is stamped "Tapy Freres & Cie" and "1885 Exhibition Grand Med. D'Honneur" on the rear plate. Poised on the performing stage are two carved wooden musicians, each costumed in original silk with gilded-paper trim, one holding a trumpet, the other a horn. They center a third carved wooden person who is poised on the metal balancing bar, and is costumed in like fashion. A large clockwork motor in the base drives both the brass and wooden cams for animations.
Movements: The acrobat performs on the high bar, twirling, pausing, and balancing while each musician raises and lowers his musical instrument as though announcing the performance. Music plays.
Historical References: The exotic Chinese performers were a popular theme in decorative arts of mid-19th century France. This beautifully made piece combines a signed timepiece with excellent sounding music and an enchanting mechanical movement. Circa 1860.