A very rare, and possibly unique late 19th century wood and polychrome paper Punch and Judy mechanical game, made by Forbes and Co Boston and New York.
“The Forbes Lithograph Manufacturing Company was founded by William H. Forbes and located in Boston, Massachusetts with branches in New York and Chicago, and an agent in London. Their work included lithography, embossing, type and block printing, plate printing, photography, and photolithography.”
It is a visually pleasing piece with the original vibrant colours. I have been unable to find a parallel. It is signed to the bottom front right, ''Forbes Co Boston & NY'', and has a registration number on the back. (26807) There is also an old label on the underside of the game for the W.S Reed Toy Company. The ''Punch and Judy Show'' is listed as number 50 and a half.
The mechanism works intermittently when the wooden handles at the front are turned, but the springs and the mechanism require attention. The spring on the middle wooden peg at the front is missing, but still lifts when turned. Old woodworm has been treated.
Free UK P&P. For international shipping quotes please contact Robert Parfett Antiques.
Also on Instagram @robertparfettantiques
Antique Number: SA1068804
Dateline of this antique is 19th Century
Height is 28cm (11.0inches)
Width is 34cm (13.4inches)
Depth is 9cm (3.5inches)
Thank you.
Your comment has been sent to Sellingantiques.