Antique "Talking" Horse Toy with Wire Mechanism, ca. Early 20th Century

Utterly enchanting and unusually rare, this antique toy horse is made of a remarkably light, papier-mâché-like material with wooden hooves and a delicate internal mechanism that still neighs when a thin wire is pulled beneath the belly. A small miracle of early sound engineering, the effect is both surprising and delightful.

With charming signs of age and original craftsmanship throughout, this piece defies easy categorization—somewhere between automaton, sculpture, and folk toy. An extraordinary addition to any serious collection of antique toys or a singular decorative object with timeless whimsy.

Measurements:
Height: 22 cm
Length: 28 cm
Materials: Composite cardboard/papier-mâché body, wooden hooves, metal wire sound mechanism
Condition: Patina consistent with age; sound mechanism still functional

Notes:
Fantastically rare and one-of-a-kind. A conversation piece for collectors and dreamers alike.