Ives Clockwork Circus Rider (Clown Dancer Variation)

Circa 1870: Fresh from our personal collection (Ex Abby Schroeder) is this extremely scarce 14.5" tall early Ives clockwork circus rider with rare clown dancing figure. Edward Ives began making clockwork toys when he moved his firm to Bridgeport, Connecticut in 1870, and this is an early example. The toy was marketed with several different figures atop the hand painted tin horse, and the clown is not often seen. This iconic clockwork toy is all original and unrestored (just the way we like to find them), works beautifully, and includes its key. We have enjoyed this large clockwork toy from the Shroeder collection for several years and are just now getting around to putting it on the open market.