Why You'll Love It
Step back in time with this fascinating and truly unique miniature automation, a mechanical antique-style children's toy that would have delighted Victorian-era children. This captivating piece features a gilt metal figure of a male gymnast in historical attire, performing an intricate pull-up and flip on a high bar. The bar is ingeniously supported by two charming tree-like structures, creating a delightful scene. The entire mechanism is presented on a decorative metal base, which has been delicately hand-painted with enamel. The top depicts a charming pair of Georgian era children, while a lone tree graces the underside. A simple crank on the side serves as the winding mechanism, animating the gymnast with a captivating motion.
Styling
This enchanting miniature automation is a perfect playful centerpiece in a Victorian nursery, would be a unique focal point in an antique toy shop display, or a whimsical conversation starter on a shelf in a playroom scene.
- MATERIALS: Metal, enamel
- DIMENSIONS: 1:12 scale, 2 5/8" tall
- CONDITION: Excellent condition for its age. Stored with care.
- HISTORY/PROVENANCE: Artisan made, unsigned.
- COLLECTION: This miniature comes from an unparalleled collection of dollhouse miniatures, acquired from a renowned, anonymous Seattle collector.
*PLEASE NOTE: You are purchasing the automata children's toy only. Think of our photos as a whimsical stage set, where your amazing new miniature takes center stage. The other props may not join you, but the star of the show is ready to shine!
A Note About Value
Every miniature we offer has been carefully evaluated for its craftsmanship, rarity, condition, provenance, and collectibility. Many of the artisan pieces we sell are one-of-a-kind works that may never appear on the market again. While original retail prices provide an interesting historical reference, they rarely reflect decades of appreciation, the artist's legacy, or the scarcity of surviving examples.
Our pricing reflects the miniature's place within today's collector market and the years we've spent studying the artists, histories, and values that make these tiny works of art so special.
A Commitment to Research
Every miniature has a story, and uncovering it is one of our greatest passions. We carefully research each piece, but unsigned or illegible works can remain mysteries. If you can identify an artist or provide additional information, we'd be delighted to hear from you and will gladly update the listing to preserve their legacy.
