The Frank Rider Collection - Spring Classic Part 1 - Day 2
Lot 1157:
Description
This exquisite, hand-carved female wooden figure likely graced a vintage band organ or orchestrion, where such animated statues were central to the visual spectacle of automated music machines. The figure’s engineered, hinged arm mechanism is a hallmark of high-quality early 20th-century amusement technology, designed to be driven by the organ’s internal pneumatic or mechanical action. The piece displays fine artistry in the sculpting of her crown, flowing hair, and period-appropriate draped gown. The rear cavity remains visible, which would have housed the linkage connecting her to the organ’s main movement system. Condition-wise, the piece shows significant age-related wear, including a clean break at the right elbow where the hinged arm has separated, and the left hand is missing one finger (the piece is included). The paint finish shows expected craquelure, paint loss, and patina consistent with years of vibration and operation in a musical cabinet. The base features drilled mounting points from its original installation and subsequent stabilization efforts. H 32″, W 16″, D 7″. Please see photos for condition.
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