Exotic Clockwork Gunboat attributed to Märklin /Rock and Graner Germany, circa 1880s

This magnificent toy is a rare example of first generation German tinplate boats; the style is much more toy-like and whimsical than the precision of later boats. Much of the work on this boat was done by hand: it is not fitted with elaborate deck details and leaves much to the imagination. Elegantly clean, toyful lines and details include twin masts, two funnels, and an exaggerated castle-like gun turret, wooden masts with crosshatched crow's nests and delicate white metal twisted rope rigging. The elevated stern deck has two lifeboats on davits, anchor, chain and crank, an eight-pointed ship's wheel which controls the rudder and rear mounted star-within-star American flag. The hull is painted black over red over green over red over black, boasting exquisite hand-painted rectangular portholes on the side. Perhaps the most arresting feature of this boat are the side-mounted gun bays which are painted pastel pink with trompe l'œil depictions of smoke filled muzzle explosions. Deck is fitted to accommodate six guns on each side. Clockwork mechanism concealed in hull. Comes with original cradle and original clockwork key that measures nearly 12 inches in height.

Formerly in the Blair Whitton Collection

Featured in The Art of the Tin Toy by David Pressland , p. 10

Remarkable condition with minor scrapes, masts have four replaced eyelets. Repair on back funnel and base of ventilator on the rear deck. Mechanism is functioning but propeller is loose.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For years the quality and beauty of this boat have led experts to attribute it to Märklin or Lutz. In recent years an original catalogue has been discovered which indicates that similar boats are the work of Rock and Graner, thus the attribution changes.