Important Wristwatches, Watches & Clocks

Geneva, Hotel Des Bergues, Apr 11, 1992

LOT 435

Anonymous, Austrian, 2nd. half of the 19th. century Interesting gold and silver snuff box, incorporating an automated erotic scene within a secret compartment in the lid.

C. Elongated octagonal, with applied gold foliage swags on the sides,acanthus borders and frame around the Iid. Matted and trellis pattern ground, the base with an engraved urn of fruit and pendant drapery. Lid centred with a scene of a naked lady, in applied gold bathing in a pool with satyres,also in gold watching from a hiding place in the rocks above,a hinged gold fish providing access to the let-off for the automaton, the winding square also hidden behind a rock. Interior of the lid with a hinged panel embossed and chased with the Three Graces, secured by two removeable pins and opening to reveal the automaton scene with silver figures of a gentleman reclining in a chair and a lady in a most uncompromising position from which she can adequately inspect the cleanliness of his shoes, the background of engraved brass depicting a drawing room. In good condition. Dims. 97 mm x 70 mm x 22 mm