Magnificent Roullet & Decamps Automaton “The Belle of the Ball” featuring an elegantly-attired, statuesque figure of a lady with an exceptionally beautiful, rare brown-eyed version of the most desirable Portrait Jumeau bisque head – all of the bisque parts are in perfect condition.  Wind the mechanism, pull the stop and music begins as the lady surveys the room, nodding at acquaintances – while she intermittently fans herself.  She then lifts her nosegay, including an ormolu posy holder, toward her face to enjoy the aroma of the flowers.  The trained gown of cream brocade with gold bullion and hand beading is in excellent condition – her original wig is beautifully styled, and she wears a fine glittering tiara upon her sublime head.  A magical, mechanical marvel.   

Please click here to view the Action     

Measures: 28-1/2” overall.

$48,500.00

This darling French Bulldog Pull Toy is the one we call the "puppy version" due to his/her youthful appearance. Dating from the 1920s-30s, this example is made from a molded "biscaloid" material that was then covered over with wool flocking to simulate fur. Lastly, areas were painted to add not only character, but facial features. Beautiful inset glass eyes were fitted, and note the collar and cocoa fiber ruff, a popular feature worn by bully breeds in that era. The toy rolls along on wooden rollers that are built into the pads of the feet, and when you pull the chain leash, not only does the head bobble realistically, the mouth opens and a realistic growl is emitted!
These pull toys are show stoppers – literally, and your own pet might stop in his tracks upon the first meeting!
Although there has been a re-glue and in-painting to the front right leg, the overall condition of this toy is very good with nice bright color and only normal wear to the flocking. Much of the time, this toy can be found in pretty sad shape, so we are proud to offer such a clean variation of man's best friend.

Measures: 18" long x 15" tall.

Please click here to view the Bulldog in Action

$2450.00
HOLD for L.

Any automaton with two moving figures is desirable, but when the figures are as intriguing, and just plain darling as these – we have a winner!
From the Roullet & Decamps firm of Paris – we offer "The Dance Lesson". Featured are the lovely instructor, who is represented by a perfect size 1 Bebe Jumeau head and partial shoulderplate, and the petite dancer – with the smallest Bebe Jumeau bisque head we have ever seen! Both feature bisque hands, plus the original wigs, blue paperweight eyes, closed mouths, and pieced ears with the original pink opaline Jumeau earrings.
Crank the key to power the motor which is housed in the base, pull the stop and the action begins! As the petite ballerina pirouettes and hops upon the velvet-covered table top, the instructor keeps time to the delicate musical tune with her right hand which holds a wooden baton. In addition, she raises and lowers her left hand, to peer through her lorgnette, then her head turns to the side and back again.
Both dolls are beautifully costumed, both appear to be original in lovely, time-worn condition. The mechanical condition of this magical piece is excellent, with strong movement and music...and, you might just pick up some new dance moves!

Please click here to view the Action

$18,500.00

In beyond beautiful condition, this adorable key-wind, walking French Kitty by Roullet & Decamps features brilliantly clean fur complete with delicately shaded pink ears, green glass eyes and a cute pink nose of molded composition. When the original metal key is wound, her (or his!) ferocious mouth opens and closes, she sharply meows like a young kitten and....walks! Adorable!
Measures: 9 1⁄2” tall and 20” to end of outstretched tail which bobs on a spring when she is off in search of mice.

Please click here to see the action

$2450.00

From the Roullet & Decamps firm of Paris, France, and dating circa 1900-10, is this young mother tending to her child. This variety has a separate key wind for the music box, which is contained in the velvet-covered base, and an additional key wind for the action, which is located on the dolls back. Wind the keys and the child goes to work rocking the baby back and forth, while her head raises and lowers to look at the bisque baby in the wicker and wire cradle – all the while a pleasant tune plays.
The bisque head doll, marked Made in Germany is beautifully costumed in French blue silk, with exquisite lace details.
An extremely charming mechanical toy!

Please click here to view the cradle in Action

Measures: 17 1/2" in total height.
Doll stands 14 1/2" tall.

SOLD
Thank you, D.

French, mechanical Elephant from the Roullet & Decamps firm of Paris, France. This model is rarely found and it is especially unusual to find one in the fine condition of this happy fellow. Wind his key, flick his stop and he takes off, lumbering in search of the jungle – or, a lady elephant!
Details include molded carton covered in soft gray suede which hides the steel frame and mechanics, glass eyes, and a red silk velvet blanket trimmed in festive gold bullion fringe which dresses him up. He says he is willing to take on a passenger – a lightweight one with very good balance, that is!

Please click here to view the Pachyderm in Action

Measures 11" tall and 15" long.

$1895.00

One of the loveliest all-original Marottes that you will ever see! Features include a sweet, perfect bisque shoulderhead, probably from the Kling firm, with a closed mouth, pretty brown glass eyes and delicately painted features. The silk costume is trimmed with fine metallic braid, delicate lace, sequins and brass bells. Especially delightful music can be enjoyed when the piece is spun by the turned wood handle.
A very impressive musical toy!

Please click here to view the marotte spin

Measures: 15" in total height.

SOLD
Thank you, J.