A charming French Palais–style figural sleigh featuring a sculptural horse in motion, finely cast in metal with a warm gilt surface and naturally developed patina. The horse is rendered with expressive detail—arched neck, lifted foreleg, and flowing mane—captured mid-stride as it pulls a delicate wire-formed sleigh.
The sleigh incorporates slender spoked wheels and gracefully curved wire elements, creating an airy, whimsical form characteristic of Palais novelties produced for the Parisian decorative arts market around the turn of the century. At the rear sits a softly iridescent, egg-shaped vessel, intended as a decorative element rather than a functional holder, reinforcing the object’s role as a novelty or conversation piece.
Surface wear, gentle oxidation, and areas of verdigris are present throughout, contributing to the piece’s authentic antique character and visual depth. These elements are consistent with age and period and have not been over-cleaned.
