Large Mechanical “Petits Chevaux” Horse Race Table

What is an ophthalmotrope? An ophthalmotrope is an apparatus for demonstrating the movements of the eye and the action of the different muscles which produce them, consisting essentially of a model eyeball to which are attached strings and pulleys to duplicate the line force of the muscles. We think this example is most likely French from the early 20th century. The base is marble with paw feet. It’s also quite large at well over 3 foot tall. This instrument is very complete. It also includes additional parts to set the mechanics up in a different way. In the pictures above the strings are attached to a keyboard. The alternative replaces the keyboard with string guide with a dozen hanging tubular weights. This is one of the largest and most decorative examples we have seen. I have only seen pictures of ophthalmotropes and never one this fine and complete. It’s as rare and impressive show piece. This item was also used in the movie Knives Out,

This is an important handmade large scale papier mâché anatomical model of a horse. It's close to two thirds scale and over four foot long. At the turn of the century France and Berl...

Large Victorian sterling silver trophy awarded for harness racing. Made by Barker Brothers in Birmingham in 1898.Gobular bowl with cast horse cover finial. Leaf-capped and -wrapped s...

This large and substantial antique mechanical drafting set most likely originates from Germany and dates to approximately 1900 and done in the period Edwa...