279. 279W An 18th century mahogany automata musical table clock playing four tunes on eight hammers Thomas Wagstaffe, London The restored inverted bell topped case with replacement caddy and possible re-veneering, with long glazed side apertures to a moulded plinth base on shallow brass ogee feet. The waisted 17cm (6.75 ins) shaped brass dial signed with a choice of four tunes Minuet; Lovely Nancy; Jigg and Minuet framing a hand painted pastoral scene, at the front of which process a series of animals including pairs of cattle, five sheep, two dogs and a farmer on horseback (automata not currently running), Roman and Arabic chapter ring with concentric date, matted centre, shaped recessed signature plaque and three hands. The triple gut fusee movement with verge escapement striking the hours on a bell and playing on eight nested bells and hammers (musical train currently not running). Ticking, but in need of a service. 55cm (1ft 10ins) high. Provenance Property of a Distinguished Private Collector