Gustave Vichy

• the automaton comprising a figure of a seated peasant holding a truffle in one hand whilst balancing a ruffle dressed piglet on his opposite knee, the peasant taps his right foot and moves his right arm, truffle in hand, to seemingly to feed the piglet, the animal turns towards the truffle, tongue wagging in anticipation, at the same time the man shrugs his shoulders simulating laughter, blinks his eyes open and shut and turns his head from side to side, removing the the truffle from the piglet's reach, all to music • music and automaton work concealed within, with 2 control levers for start/stop terminating in Vichy's signature Acorn

Very unusual and very rare, in working order Cracking and pigment loss to back of chair, with other scattered areas of cracking, to side of figure's face. Pigment loss under figure's lip. Cracking to one finger. Cracking to head and inner and outer leg of pig. Pigment loss to ear of pig, some rubbing to paint on pigs left knee. Figure's clothing has a soiled appearance however the jacket and pants are probably replacements, the shirt show fraying, Losses and cracking to shoes which appear to be original With separate winder.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. 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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

For similar automata, see Bailly, C., Automata: The Golden Age, pp. 98 and 249.