Rare French Decapitated Man Automaton by Phalibois of Paris
This rare one-of-a-kind French musical automaton by one of the most famous automata makers, Phalibois of Paris, dates to the late 19th century. The automaton depicts a jolly Frenchman enjoying a bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne while holding an umbrella. With the flip of a switch, the man’s suspenders move up and down as though laughing with delight as a cylinder music box movement in the base begins to play. In a surprising turn of events, his umbrella tilts forward and back, revealing that the man’s head has disappeared and magically reappeared in the barrel next to him. As the umbrella lowers and lifts for the second time, the man’s wayward head is reunited with his body once again.
This automaton is the only one of its kind in the world and has survived since 1875 in remarkable condition. The element of surprise and the comical character never fails to delight audiences of all ages.
The automaton and musical movement bear a complete restoration and a one-year warranty.
Including the base; 36″ High x 17″ Wide x 13″ Deep
Circa 1875