Standing upon velvet-covered base is a black-complexioned paper mache man with brown glass eyes, leather eyelid. Open mouth with two rows of teeth, dark fleeced mohair wig, carton torso and legs with bare feet, defined toes, wire upper arms, paper mache hands, wearing original elaborate silk costume. He is holding a large woven ormolu-edged tray that contains three paper mache fruit. When wound, he turns and nods his head in a realistic manner as though calling out to passers-by, while his eyes blink open and closed (see note below). Then, in sequence, each of the fruits opens, revealing, one by one, three surprises:, a paper mache monkey with blinking glass eyes and chattering mouth, bisque girl and boy who dance and twirl about, and a paper mache mouse which runs in circles over and over again. Condition: generally excellent, music and mechanism function well. Comments: Gustave Vichy, circa 1885. Value Points: an outstanding example of the intricate automaton with 11 different animations and perfectly-preserved original finish and costume, delightful surprises. For some reason, after 13 years of storing it, lids seems to have a problems to blink. The item “Fruit Seller Rare and All-Original French Musical Automaton by Vichy” is in sale since Tuesday, February 12, 2019. This item is in the category “Collectibles\Decorative Collectibles\Music Boxes\Pre-1900″. The seller is “nicolletstar” and is located in South Saint Paul, Minnesota. This item can be shipped to United States.

• Country/Region of Manufacture: France
• Modified Item: No
• Brand: Vichy