C.1825, French, Villensers a Paris, Water Fall Automaton,

C.1825, French, Villensers a Paris, Water Fall Automaton, simulating the appearance of running water with a twisty glass column. The original period silk thread movement is signed in script along the bottom margin of the rear plate. Countwheel striking on a bell. The automaton is wound from the rear , and the rear cover for the spring motor was replaced at some time; also the pendulum is a replacement. The case depicts a large stack of jagged granite, with a natural spring at the base. A young man in 16th century dress is holding a leather water container that he has just filled at the spring. The gilding on the case has been recently renewed (a nice job), and the dial re-silvered and movement serviced. A nice period example. Height 17 inches