Potter & Potter Auctions
Live Auction

Cabinet of Curiosities

Sat, Sep 27, 2025 12:00PM EDT
Lot 9

[AUTOMATON]. Fruit-Seller with Surprises. Paris: Vichy, lat...

Estimate: $10,000 - $15,000

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$30 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $200
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
$50,000 $5,000
$100,000 $10,000
[AUTOMATON]. Fruit-Seller with Surprises. Paris: Vichy, late 19th century. Musical mechanical automaton with painted papier-m?ch? head and hands, glass eyes, articulated jaw, and detailed costuming including a satin jacket with gilt trim, striped trousers, and a felt top hat. The figure stands on a velvet-covered base, holding a decorated tray with painted composition fruit and miniature dishware, trimmed with fabric flowers and ribbons. As each fruit opens, it reveals one of three surprises: a scurrying mouse, a waltzing couple, and a papier-mache monkey with blinking glass eyes and chattering mouth. Wear, fading, and surface losses consistent with age and handling; tray accessories with chipping and cracks. Tested, functional. Third-party shipping required. 27 x 14 x 12".