A small and unusual lithographed tinplate automaton - 'The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace'

A small and unusual lithographed tinplate automaton  - 'The Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace'

 

Most probably German manufacture, with USA and UK patents,

 
circa 1930,
 
SUMMER SALE PRICE £900
 
 
Left, Right, Left, Right, Halt!
 
When wound with original key and the start/stop lever actuated, the action begins immediately, with the two Grenadier Guards in march poise, each with rifles on shoulder, march towards each other then stop, turn in opposite directions to march again towards their sentry boxes, then turn again and continue until receiving the order to halt by turning off.
 
All in colour lithographed tinplate in very fine definition, depicting the entire frontage of Buckingham Palace and the central gates and railings, both sentry boxes sited outside the railings and soldiers donning world-famous bearskin headdress and bright scarlet uniforms, with motor housing box with open governor and winding spindle to rear.
Stamped to rear USA Pat; BRITISH Pat., pending, DRGM. DRPa.   
 
size - 8.1/2in. wide, 3.1/2in. deep, 4.1/4in. high - (21.5 x 9 x 11cm)
 
Point of Interest - 
 
German firms such as Bing and Märklin were the kings of tinplate.  There were other firms too who used a similar lithographing process directly on to the tin to achieve immense detail - seen here with every window and column capitol picked out beautifully.  Even the solder's cuff buttons are clearly identified.
This very amusing and accurate automaton, made some 70 years ago, depicts a duty to the crown still commencing today, with the Grenadier Guards always posted outside the Queen's London residence.
STOCK No1611
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