179 - AUTOMATA “The Baulaies’ Dinner”. A display case featuring au…
See original version (French)

Estimate €1,500 - €2,000

Description

AUTOMATA “The Baulaies’ Dinner”. A display case featuring automata depicting a romantic supper for a couple seated at a table, served by a standing chef/sommelier; all three have ape-like features. Eighteen movements animate the figures (with numerous facial expressions and arm gestures) via a longitudinal shaft carrying the control cams. This piece can be attributed to the workshop of Jean-Marie Phalibois (1835–1900), dating from the latter third of the 19th century. Originally, this scene was intended to adorn the top of a parlour organette (a small reed organ with a cylinder). In the 20th century, presumably following a fault with the instrument, the automaton scene was removed, modified and framed in the fairground style, no doubt to be used in travelling exhibitions of automatons. Dimensions (WxHxD) 580 x 580 x 360 mm The whole unit functions satisfactorily, although it requires some adjustment to the range of movement.

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About the sale ANGERS: 11.00 am: coins, firemen’s helmets, walking sticks, Asian, African and Oceanic art – 1.30 pm: Bachelor’s degree (Year 4) – Art & Collections

Auction location

Auction time 06/24/2026 at 11:00 AM

Pictures modified on 06/17/2026 at 1:15 PM

Lot description modified on 06/17/2026 at 1:15 PM

Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House

179 - AUTOMATA “The Baulaies’ Dinner”. A display case featuring au… See original version (French)

179 - AUTOMATA “The Baulaies’ Dinner”. A display case featuring au…
See original version (French)