Rare and early (date from about 1880’s) musical automaton or "Tableau Vivant" (Living Tableau) that was attributed to Gustave Vichy, of Paris, France.
The figure have bisque head with glass eyes and white mohair wig, silk costume in poor condition, metal hands and body articulated at the elbows, hips and knees.
The automaton has several movements, two independent. With key.
Frame in carved and gilded wood and gesso with defects according to the age.
Mechanism in good condition.
Dimensions: 40cm (15.7") tall by 42cm (16.5") wide and 19cm (7.4") deep.
Inside the box representing a theater on velvet stage, with two levels of heights, with applications in gold Dresden paper trim and spandrel and mirrored sides reflecting a pair of colorful wooden balls that rise and fall alternately.
When wound a cylinder movement plays music. The figure to represent a Chinese man moves his head up and down, moves his arms and his legs, kicking and then catching the spinning balls.
The entire piece is meant to sit level and upright on a table, sideboard or mantel, and the rear side be accessible for winding of the mechanism on occasion.

Please e mail richardhughes@bellsouth.net for condition report