Lot Essay
The figures are remarkable because both harpists' hands are automated. A three-motion automaton of this size is extremely rare.
Details
A RARE SMALL ENAMELLED GOLD GEM-SET MUSICAL AUTOMATON
In the form of a padlock bordered in split pearls enclosing enamelled scene of a garden with automata of a harpist and a guitar player, the reverse enamelled with a diamond-set nosegay on blue ground, the movement activated by shackle, comprising a pinned barrel and five-tooth comb, with enamelled key en suite and a bow brooch set with split pearls, Geneva, c. 1810--44mm. long
In the form of a padlock bordered in split pearls enclosing enamelled scene of a garden with automata of a harpist and a guitar player, the reverse enamelled with a diamond-set nosegay on blue ground, the movement activated by shackle, comprising a pinned barrel and five-tooth comb, with enamelled key en suite and a bow brooch set with split pearls, Geneva, c. 1810--44mm. long