13" x 7" base (33 x 18 cm). A rosewood platform with superbly stenciled pattern to suggest inlaid floor displays a matching rosewood pianoforte at which is seated a paper mache lady with original wig and silk costume, wooden arms that are wire attached to interior simple mechanism; and a paper mache headed man with original silk costume, wooden arms and legs, wire attached head and right arm to interior mechanism. When activated, music plays, the woman "plays" the piano, the man nods his head up and down and waves baton. Condition: mechanism is delicate and requires adjustment although intact and unfussed; dolls, furniture and platform excellent. Marks: Schlufs Ariea Madchen v. Elisonas [and] Mailufterl v. Krespel (paper label listing melodies). Frau Schwertner, Marriage figaro 47 (pencil script on base). F. Rzebitschek musikwerk Fabrik in Prag. [and] No. 8228 86721 (maker's mark on music cylinder). Comments: the family Rzebitschek of Prague were small but illustrious makers of music boxes and automaton in the first two decades of the 19th century. Value Points: very rare and early automaton in original state of preservation with perfectly preserved decorations and costumes, presented on original velvet covered platform with oval glass dome.