Automata: Life & Other Illusions

Rabbit in Hat Automaton. Paris: Roullet & Decamps, ca. 1910. A snow white rabbit rises from the center of the silk opera hat when the mechanism is triggered. Real fur, glass eyes, and paper leaves covering the interior of the hat, the exterior of which is covered with silk and bears a rhinestone-studded buckle on the fabric band (several stones lacking). The animal’s hands move as it bobs up and down in the hat. Music accompanies the movement. Height (hat only) 8”. Generally good condition, with minor wear to fabric and fur and sluggish action. Minor adjustment of mechanism suggested. An uncommon version of this R&D automaton, more frequently encountered with the rabbit at the center of a head of lettuce. VIEW VIDEO