Such a wonderful item! This is just in from France, would have originally come from the boutiques that line the promenade of the old Palais Royal, where the elite and cultured entertained themselves with shopping, theater, dining in high fashion from 1700s onward. Formerly the palace of Cardinal Richelieu, the history and allure of objects sold out of those boutiques still thrill collectors today. This is a working wheelbarrow in miniature; well, it's 12" long, so much larger than these normally might have been. Dore bronze and tin, it's a serving piece for cigars, we're told. Though perhaps you'll find it perfect to display your several old tortie cigar cases, instead, there in the front, and perhaps a coin purse or 2 or 3 in that little canoe-like pouch. This one dates to the Napoleon III era, we are quite sure, c.1850-70, if not earlier. The wheel turns. It's perfect as accoutrement for a doll collector, sized as it is. Heavy old door bronze, this is not just pressed brass ormolu. Full measurements are noted in the photos.
Very good to excellent condition throughout. I can't find a single flaw to note. The fabric silk lining of the canoe-shaped pouch you see there is old but not tattered much at all. No breaks, no weakened joints, and the wheel turns smoothly. No bends and no loss. Would be fabulous brought to your table as a serving piece for cigars after dinner, no? Or even toast at a formal brunch? You'll find the perfect ways to get it front and center and conversed over.
