[AUTOMATON]. Black Flautist. France: Alexandre Nicolas Th?roude, ca. late 19th/early 20th century. Large-scale musical automaton depicting a young musician dressed in velvet and brocade garments with gilt trim, standing barefoot upon a circular plinth covered in green velvet and trimmed with decorative rings. The figure holds a wooden flute to its lips, with articulated arms, head, and chest designed to simulate the act of playing. Hand-painted papier-m?ch? head with inset glass eyes and realistic hair. Later clothing. Functioning; without key. 78 x 25 x 22". Third-party shipping required.