Lot 34:
Sold for: £34
Description
A J.C. tinplate live steam stationary model engine. This horizontal configuration steam toy is constructed from painted and lithographed tinplate with a cast metal spoked flywheel and brass boiler fittings. The unit features a cylindrical boiler mounted over a metal firebox, equipped with a safety valve, whistle, and water level sight glass. A copper steam line connects the boiler to a single-acting cylinder with a piston that drives the red-painted flywheel. The engine is mounted on a pressed tinplate base decorated with a green marbled lithographed pattern. A triangular decal is applied to the corner of the base featuring the initials J.C. in the centre, above the text UNIS-FRANCE. The boiler is fitted with a long, detachable vertical chimney.
Base length: 11 inches
Total length including chimney: 13 inches.
Condition report:
The engine shows significant signs of age and previous use. There is heavy surface oxidation and scorching to the paint on the firebox and boiler housing (photo 4). The chimney displays heavy soot-like staining and areas of minor surface rust (photo 1). The green marbled lithography on the base shows visible paint loss, scratching, and wear, particularly around the edges and near the firebox (photo 4). The red paint on the flywheel is chipped in several places (photo 4). The spirit burner tray is missing from the firebox (photo 2). A general layer of dust and grime is present across all components. The piston and flywheel move freely when turned by hand; however, the working function is untested.
Share this lot:
