Standing on an ebony wooden base is a wooden or wooden-composition soldier in formal well-detailed regimental uniform, having blue glass eyes, white mohair wig and moustache, body posed in marching stance, wooden forearms and hands. Attached to the soldier is a tin drum stenciled "Auvergne Fidelity". Movements: his head moves from side to side, and he beats the drum with the stick held in each hand. Created as an animated attraction for a merchant's shop, possibly a tailor of military uniforms, the figure was designed with simple repetitive motions. It would thus attract attention without diverting the observer from the more important purpose of choosing goods to purchase. Extremely rare, only one other example is known, a simpler version that operates by strings pulled at the back torso. This luxury model is key-wound. French, Maker unknown. Circa 1850. 32" (80 cm). Exhibits: Hospice Saint-Charles, Liege.