#16

Automaton Lady Playing Piano As Candy Box
Live Auction

$15,500
sold
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Description

11"l piano (28 cm),15" seated doll (38 cm). Standing at an ebony-finished wooden upright piano with bone keys, ormolu candleholders and music rack, original enameled faience vase, is a bisque-headed bebe with blue glass paperweight inset eyes, painted lashes and brows, closed mouth with shaded lips, pierced ears, blonde mohair wig over cork pate, carton moule torso and legs, wire upper arms, composition forearms and hands. When wound, music plays and the doll "plays" the piano. Condition: generally excellent. Marks: Depose Tete Jumeau Bte SGDG 2. Comments: circa 1890,the upper lid of the piano lifts for access to candy box interior, with original paper lace lining. Value Points: the very luxurious candy box combines artistry of fine bisque doll, mechanical and musical automaton, and wears original silk and lace costume.