This extremely rare clockwork toy is the third example we know of to have surfaced. The painted composition head suggests Ives manufacture but this is far from certain. The clockwork is concealed in the wood housing behind the player. A paper label underneath the playing field explains the operation of the toy but is difficult to read. Operation begins by placing balls in groove, when one is released it is 'teed' up and player hits ball to hole - when ball drops in hole another ball is released. The first line of the paper label is incomplete but what remains reads in bold letters 'BALL ------------T Game'. Since the figure is holding a croquet mallet it would suggest that the title might have read 'Boy and Mallet Game' which would fit. The other example we had access to had no label. Overall condition is excellent though the figure is partially redressed - one red sleeve has gold paper trim suggesting the sleeves were part of a missing red tunic which one other example has - missing clothes have been replaced with a velvet jump suit.

18.75" l.

Note: Spring snapped, needs repair. excellent (issues as noted)