6.2.26 LARGE COLLECTIBLE ONLINE ONLY AUCTION
Lot 60:
Description
A vintage clockwork toy featuring an elephant figure riding a tricycle. The elephant is constructed of lithographed tinplate and is depicted in a seated position with its front legs holding the handlebars. The trunk is raised vertically and supports a red rotating disk at the tip. The elephant is decorated with a red and yellow caparison featuring floral patterns and a white bird motif on the side. The tricycle is comprised of a red rear fender housing and a blue and red frame. A removable metal wind-up key is included and inserted into the side of the vehicle. Permanent markings are visible on the elephant’s lower legs: the left rear leg is marked MADE IN U.S.-ZONE and the right rear leg is marked GERMANY. These markings identify the toy as having been manufactured in the United States occupation zone of post-WWII Germany, approximately between 1945 and 1949. The tricycle is fitted with black rubber or soft plastic tires.
Condition report:
The toy is in good vintage condition showing signs of play wear consistent with its age. There are scattered minor scratches and scuffs to the lithographed surfaces, particularly on the elephant\'s body and the tricycle frame. Unpainted metal components, including the handlebars, axles, and the wind-up key, exhibit surface oxidation and pitting. The lithographed colors remain bright and the decorative graphics are largely intact.
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