Image Lot Price Description


1042
$19,550.00

RARE ALEXANDRE THEROUDE BARREL ORGAN MONKEY AUTOMATON. Mid-19th Century. This phenomenal and exquisite hand crank barrel organ automaton depicts a duet of courtly dressed monkeys flanking a central simian magician or conjurer in a room setting. The very animated magician nods to onlookers, blinks his eyes, and pulls back his lips in a smile as the objects beneath his two chalices magically transform into other objects. The two articulated musicians open and close their mouths, nod their heads, and blink their eyes while playing their cello and violin. The violin player even taps his foot to the music. Tallied at 18 separate movements, the trio is a joy to behold. The gorgeously inlaid cabinet features a central image of a young ballerina surrounded by vines and garland. Inside is a Thibouville Lamy 8-tune barrel organ providing lovely accompaniment to the captivating action of the characters. SIZE: 36″ h x 24-1/2″ w x 13″ d. CONDITION: Very good to near excellent with average wear with all movements and functions working properly. There has been some minor professional restoration to the violinist’s kid leather jaw. And the barrel organ was restored to very good working condition. 1-11378 (18,000-22,000)


Auction: Advertising, Toy & Doll - Fall 2011
Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.