This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/20/2018
Blooming Orange Tree Automaton and Music Box. Paris: Pierre Mayer, ca. 2005. As the handle is cranked, the small tree first grows flowers, then bears orange fruits. Finally, the orange at the top splits open to reveal a silk handkerchief pulled by two butterflies. Modeled after the famous automaton/magic trick of Robert-Houdin. 5 x 3 x 12”. With wooden packing case and sold together with a contemporary music box bearing an image of Robert-Houdin performing the effect on its lid. Signed by the maker. Accompanying Plexiglas music box plays the “L’Oranger” tune from Robert-Houdin’s “Fantastic Evenings” and was made to commemorate the bicentennial of Robert-Houdin’s birth. Both items working. Repaired crack to crank. Very good.