Advertising automaton under a globe depicting a "tasting room" scene, with two characters. The first (the customer dressed in a frock coat) is seated next to a wooden pedestal table, reading his newspaper. The second (the waiter) pours him a cup of hot chocolate. The set is presented on a black fabric-covered base bearing the inscription in gold letters "UNE TASSE de CHOCOLAT - SALON de CONSOMMATION n° 4". The 9-movement clockwork mechanism in the base brings the whole piece to life. The two figures (35 cm and 26 cm) have wooden heads with black enamel eyes. The "client" has a special articulated jaw. This very fresh set is in its original condition. However, the mechanism needs cleaning. Dimensions : 52x42x28 JM PHALIBOIS was, by trade, a cardboard maker and appeared in trade directories from 1863. He specialised in mechanised scenes on bases, depicting daily life and small trades. Expert: Mr Jean-Claude CAZENAVE