Ant COVENT GARDEN CABARET THEATRE SHADOW BOX MECHANICAL GYMNAST Automata? NR

Description

Antique COVENT GARDEN CABARET THEATRE
WOODEN SHADOW BOX MECHANICAL GYMNAST
Automata?
From a Connecticut Estate Auction comes this
Antique COVENT GARDEN CABARET THEATRE WOODEN SHADOW BOX MECHANICAL GYMNAST.
Measuring approximately 4 3/4” wide, 7” high and 2” deep, the gymnast (shown in various positions in the photos) seems to keep moving somewhat mysteriously as there is no winding mechanism.
The fact, however, that it has been leaking extremely fine sand (I've taped up a couple of the edges and bagged it to preserve any further sand that leaks out) suggests that the movement of the sand when you turn it over begins a mechanical process which keeps this guy twirling back and forth. I can't find any information on antique ones and suspect this will find maximum happiness with someone who knows what it is and can restore it. As shown, it has a an original round tag on the bag which says CABARET MECHANICAL THEATRE and COVENT GARDEN, LONDON. Some of the paper covering is distressed, especially at the edges though its silver frame ornamentation if mostly intact. Please watch my listings for what I hope it an interesting and eclectic selection of other vintage and antique items.
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