Appraisily

July 24, 2023

Rabbit in Cabbage Antique Toy: Complete Value Guide & Collector's Information

Discover the value and history of Rabbit in Cabbage antique toys. Learn about these rare automatons, their auction prices, and what makes them valuable collectibles.

Rare antique Roullet & Decamps Rabbit in Cabbage automaton with fur rabbit emerging from silk cabbage leaves
By Appraisily Team Last updated July 24, 2023

The charming “Rabbit in Cabbage” automaton is one of the most delightful and sought-after mechanical toys from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These whimsical creations feature a fur-covered rabbit that emerges from a silk cabbage when activated, often accompanied by a musical tune. For collectors of antique toys and automatons, these pieces represent the height of mechanical artistry and command significant prices at auction.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the fascinating history, key manufacturers, valuation factors, and current market prices for these enchanting mechanical creations.

Table of Contents

  1. What Is a Rabbit in Cabbage Automaton?
  2. History and Manufacturers
  3. Determining Value Factors
  4. Current Market Value
  5. Authentication and Identification
  6. Care and Maintenance
  7. Where to Buy and Sell
  8. FAQs
  9. External Resources
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>What Is a Rabbit in Cabbage Automaton?</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">These charming mechanical toys feature a white rabbit that pops up from inside a decorative cabbage when activated, usually accompanied by a musical element. Created primarily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they represent the golden age of European automaton craftsmanship.</div>

A Rabbit in Cabbage automaton is a sophisticated mechanical toy featuring a white rabbit (typically fur-covered with glass eyes) that emerges and retreats into an artificial cabbage made of silk or other fabric leaves. When wound with a key and activated, the rabbit performs an up-and-down movement while music plays from a built-in music box mechanism.

These automatons typically stand about 7-9 inches tall and were primarily manufactured in Paris, France by renowned automaton makers such as Roullet & Decamps. They represent the height of mechanical toy innovation during the Victorian and Edwardian eras.

The mechanism consists of:

  • A spring-driven motor that requires winding
  • A cam system that controls the rabbit’s movement
  • A musical component that plays one or more melodies
  • Detailed craftsmanship in both mechanism and exterior decoration
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>History and Manufacturers</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">The Rabbit in Cabbage automaton has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century, with Roullet &amp; Decamps being the primary manufacturer of these mechanical marvels.</div>

Evolution of Rabbit in Cabbage Automatons

  1. 1880s

    Early Development

    The earliest Rabbit in Cabbage automatons were developed in Paris by the Roullet company, which would later partner with Decamps.
  2. 1890s

    Roullet & Decamps Partnership

    Jean Roullet and Ernest Decamps formed their partnership, creating what would become the most recognized manufacturer of these automatons. Their models featured superior mechanical reliability and artistic details.
  3. 1910-1930s

    Golden Age

    The early 20th century saw the refinement of the design with improved mechanics and more elaborate decorative elements. This period produced many of the examples that survive today.
  4. 1950s-Present

    Collectible Status

    As production of traditional automatons declined, vintage Rabbit in Cabbage toys became highly sought after by collectors, with values steadily increasing at auctions and specialty sales.

Key Manufacturers

Roullet & Decamps: The premier maker of Rabbit in Cabbage automatons, this Parisian firm was renowned for their mechanical expertise and artistic excellence. Their models are the most sought-after by collectors today.

Other Notable Makers:

  • Some models were produced by smaller French workshops that often mimicked the Roullet & Decamps design
  • Later reproductions have been made by specialty craftsmen and restoration experts
  • Each manufacturer had subtle differences in their mechanism design and exterior decorative elements

The Rabbit in Cabbage automatons were particularly popular among wealthy families during the late Victorian and Edwardian periods, often purchased as gifts for children or as decorative novelties for the home. They represent the intersection of mechanical engineering and artistic craftsmanship that defined luxury toys of that era.

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Determining Value Factors</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Several key factors influence the value of a Rabbit in Cabbage automaton in today&rsquo;s collectibles market. Understanding these elements is crucial for accurate appraisal.</div>

The value of a Rabbit in Cabbage automaton can vary significantly based on several important factors:

Manufacturer and Age

  • Roullet & Decamps Models: Generally command the highest prices, especially those from the 1890-1920 period
  • Documented Provenance: Models with verifiable history of ownership can increase value by 20-30%
  • Age Verification: Authentically dated models from the 19th century typically demand premium prices

Condition Assessment

Condition Factors Affecting Value

These factors significantly impact the value of a Rabbit in Cabbage automaton

  • Working Mechanical Movement
  • Original Fur on Rabbit Intact
  • Functional Musical Component
  • Original Glass Eyes Present
  • Original Fabric Cabbage Leaves
  • Original Key Present
  • Original Box or Packaging
  • No Restoration or Modern Replacements

Originality and Completeness

The presence of original components significantly affects value:

  • All-Original Examples: Pieces with all original components in working order represent the highest tier of value
  • Partially Restored: Models with some replacement parts (commonly fabric leaves or rabbit fur) typically sell for 30-50% less than all-original examples
  • Heavily Restored: Extensively rebuilt models with multiple replacement parts may sell for 60-70% less than pristine original examples

Rarity and Unique Features

Some Rabbit in Cabbage automatons have special characteristics that increase their desirability:

  • Unusual Movements: Some rare models feature more complex movements beyond the basic up/down action
  • Special Musical Components: Automatons with multiple tunes or unusual melodies typically command higher prices
  • Custom Detailing: Unique decorative elements or special order features from the original manufacture

Documentation and History

  • Original Purchase Records: Documentation of original purchase dramatically increases collector interest
  • Exhibition History: Models that have been featured in museum exhibitions or notable collections
  • Published Examples: Automatons that appear in reference books or auction catalogs

Understanding these value factors can help collectors and sellers establish reasonable price expectations for these charming mechanical treasures.

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Current Market Value</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">The market for Rabbit in Cabbage automatons has seen strong and consistent growth over the past decade, with exceptional examples commanding premium prices at major auction houses.</div>

Rabbit in Cabbage Automaton Price Ranges

Current market values based on recent sales (2020-2023)

  </tbody>
</table>

Notable Auction Results

Recent significant sales highlight the high-end market for these automatons:

Recent Auction Sales of Rabbit in Cabbage Automatons

Notable sales from major auction houses

Category Price Notes
Museum-Quality Original Examples $2,500 - $4,000+ Complete original condition with working mechanism and original box
Excellent Condition Original Examples $1,500 - $2,500 All original components in good working order
Good Condition with Minor Restoration $800 - $1,500 Working mechanism with some restored components
Heavily Restored or Non-Working Examples $400 - $800 Significant restoration or non-functional mechanism
Reproduction or Modern Models $100 - $400 Modern made versions with similar appearance 
  </tbody>
</table>

Market Insights

The market for Rabbit in Cabbage automatons has shown several notable trends:

  1. Increasing Rarity: As original examples become scarcer, prices have steadily risen
  2. Condition Premium: The gap between pristine and restored examples continues to widen
  3. Museum Interest: Institutional collecting has removed many top examples from the market
  4. International Appeal: Strong interest from collectors in America, Europe, and increasingly Asia
  5. Digital Documentation: Online auction records have made price history more transparent

For collectors and investors, these automatons represent a stable investment in the antique toy and mechanical collectibles market, with the finest examples consistently performing well against inflation.

A rare example of a Rabbit in Cabbage automaton with its original box and key

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Authentication and Identification</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Properly identifying and authenticating a Rabbit in Cabbage automaton is crucial for determining its true value and avoiding misrepresentations or reproductions.</div>

Identifying Genuine Roullet & Decamps Models

Authentic Roullet & Decamps Rabbit in Cabbage automatons typically feature several distinctive characteristics:

  1. Maker’s Marks: Look for “R.D.” or “Roullet & Decamps” markings, typically found on the base or mechanism
  2. Construction Techniques: Period-appropriate soldering techniques and materials
  3. Mechanism Design: Distinctive flywheel governor and specific gear arrangements
  4. Material Authenticity: Original models use specific types of:
    • Brass components with particular patina
    • Period-appropriate fabrics for cabbage leaves
    • Natural fur (typically rabbit) for the figure
    • Glass eyes with characteristic mounting technique

Dating Your Automaton

Determine the approximate age of your Rabbit in Cabbage automaton by examining:

  1. Musical Mechanism: The style and construction of the musical movement evolved over time

    • Early models (1880s-1890s): Simpler movements with 1-2 tunes
    • Later models (1900s-1930s): More refined mechanisms with multiple tune options

  2. Base Construction: The design of the base changed subtly through different production periods

    • Early bases were typically simpler with less decorative detail
    • Later examples often featured more elaborate painted or lithographed decoration

  3. Materials Analysis: A professional can analyze:

    • Age of fabric dyes used in cabbage leaves
    • Construction methods for the mechanical components
    • Composition of solders and metal alloys

Avoiding Reproductions and Fakes

Be aware of these warning signs that may indicate a reproduction:

  1. Modern Materials: Synthetic fabrics, modern adhesives, or plastic components
  2. Incorrect Mechanism: Simplified mechanics or movement patterns unlike originals
  3. New Appearance: Overly pristine condition inconsistent with age
  4. Price Discrepancies: Significantly lower prices than established auction records
  5. Missing Provenance: Lack of history or documentation for supposedly rare examples

Consulting Experts

For valuable or rare examples, consider professional authentication through:

  1. Specialized Automaton Dealers: Experts like The House of Automata offer authentication services
  2. Auction House Specialists: Major auction houses employ experts in mechanical toys
  3. Museum Conservators: Some specialized museums can provide expert opinions
  4. Mechanical Technical Analysis: Engineering specialists can evaluate mechanism authenticity

Understanding these authentication factors will help collectors make informed decisions when purchasing these valuable mechanical treasures.

Close-up detail showing the mechanical components of a Roullet & Decamps Rabbit in Cabbage automaton

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Care and Maintenance</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Proper care is essential to preserve both the value and functionality of these delicate mechanical antiques. Following best practices will ensure your automaton remains in excellent condition for future generations.</div>

Handling Guidelines

When handling your Rabbit in Cabbage automaton:

  1. Clean Hands: Always handle with clean, dry hands to prevent oils and dirt transfer
  2. Proper Support: Support the base when moving, never lift by the cabbage or rabbit
  3. Workspace Preparation: Place on a clean, flat surface covered with soft cloth
  4. Limited Operation: Run the mechanism sparingly to reduce wear (2-3 times monthly maximum)
  5. Gentle Winding: Wind the key with gentle, consistent pressure until resistance is felt

Storage Recommendations

Protect your automaton when not displayed:

  1. Climate Control: Store in stable environment (65-70°F, 45-55% humidity)
  2. Light Protection: Avoid direct sunlight and strong artificial light
  3. Dust Prevention: Use a display case or acid-free cloth cover
  4. Stable Position: Store on level surface away from vibration
  5. Original Box: If available, the original box offers ideal protection

Preservation Techniques

For long-term preservation:

  1. Periodic Inspection: Check quarterly for signs of deterioration
  2. Mechanism Maintenance: Apply clock oil to moving parts every 3-5 years
  3. Dust Removal: Use soft artist brushes or low-pressure air to remove dust
  4. Fabric Preservation: Avoid handling delicate cabbage leaves
  5. Documentation: Keep records of condition, repairs, and maintenance

When to Seek Professional Help

Consider professional restoration or maintenance when:

  1. Mechanism Fails: Grinding sounds or failure to complete movement cycle
  2. Music Box Issues: Tune plays incorrectly or mechanism won’t wind
  3. Structural Problems: Loose components or unstable base
  4. Material Deterioration: Flaking paint, deteriorating fabric, or fur loss
  5. Significant Value: For high-value examples, professional maintenance preserves investment

Finding Qualified Restorers

Not all antique restorers have the specialized knowledge for automatons. Look for:

  1. Specialized Automaton Experts: Restorers with specific experience in mechanical toys
  2. Watchmaker Skills: Professionals with clock and watch repair background
  3. Museum Recommendations: Conservation departments can often suggest qualified specialists
  4. Documented Experience: Ask for examples of similar restoration work
  5. Clear Methodology: Ensure they follow conservation best practices that preserve originality

With proper care and maintenance, your Rabbit in Cabbage automaton can remain functional and retain its value for generations to come.

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Where to Buy and Sell</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Finding reputable venues for purchasing or selling these valuable collectibles requires knowledge of the specialized market for antique automatons and mechanical toys.</div>

Premium Auction Houses

Major auction houses regularly feature Rabbit in Cabbage automatons in their specialized toy and automaton sales:

  1. Christie’s: Holds dedicated automaton and mechanical toy auctions
  2. Bonhams: Features quality examples in their toy and collectibles sales
  3. Sotheby’s: Occasionally includes high-end automatons in decorative arts auctions
  4. Specialized Auction Houses:
    • Theriault’s (specializing in antique toys and dolls)
    • Bertoia Auctions (known for antique toys)
    • Potter & Potter Auctions (regularly features mechanical toys)

Specialized Dealers

Several dealers focus specifically on antique automatons:

  1. The House of Automata (Scotland): Premier specialist in antique automatons
  2. M.S. Rau Antiques (New Orleans): High-end antiques including mechanical toys
  3. Music Box Attic: Specializes in mechanical music and automaton pieces
  4. Antique Toy World: Features quality mechanical toys and automatons

Online Marketplaces

For a broader range of options and prices:

  1. LiveAuctioneers: Aggregates auction listings including many automaton sales
  2. 1stDibs: Features high-end antique dealers with automatons
  3. Ruby Lane: Vetted antique dealers offering quality mechanical toys
  4. eBay: Occasional authentic examples, but requires careful authentication

Collector Communities

Networking with other collectors can lead to private sale opportunities:

  1. Automaton Collectors Association: Community of dedicated collectors
  2. Antique Toy Collectors of America: Organization with members interested in mechanical toys
  3. Mechanical Music Society: Members often collect both music boxes and automatons
  4. Online Forums: Several collector forums specialize in mechanical antiques

Selling Your Automaton

If you’re looking to sell, consider these approaches based on your goals:

  1. Maximum Return: Consignment to specialized auction house (15-25% commission)
  2. Quick Sale: Direct sale to established dealer (expect 40-60% of retail value)
  3. Fair Market Value: Private sale through collector networks
  4. Tax Benefits: Donation to museum with potential tax deduction

Tips for Buyers

When purchasing a Rabbit in Cabbage automaton:

  1. Request Condition Reports: Detailed assessment of mechanical and aesthetic condition
  2. Verify Authenticity: Ask for expert opinions on attribution and age
  3. Check Restoration History: Understand what components have been replaced or repaired
  4. Research Comparable Sales: Use auction databases to compare similar examples
  5. Consider Long-Term Value: Original condition examples typically appreciate better

By utilizing these specialized venues and understanding the market dynamics, collectors can make informed decisions when buying or selling these charming mechanical treasures.

Common Questions About Rabbit in Cabbage Automatons

How can I tell if my Rabbit in Cabbage automaton is an authentic Roullet & Decamps model? 
Authentic Roullet & Decamps Rabbit in Cabbage automatons typically feature:

    

  • A maker’s mark (R.D. or Roullet & Decamps) on the base or mechanism
    • 

  • Period-appropriate materials including brass mechanical components
    • 

  • A distinctive flywheel governor in the movement
    • 

  • Hand-soldered joints with characteristic patina
    • 

  • Natural fur on the rabbit (typically rabbit fur) rather than synthetic materials
    • 

  • Glass eyes with specific mounting techniques
    • 



For valuable pieces, consider having it examined by an automaton specialist or reputable auction house for authentication.

What is the average value of a Rabbit in Cabbage automaton in good condition? 
A Rabbit in Cabbage automaton in good original condition with a working mechanism typically sells in the range of $1,500-$2,500. 

However, several factors can significantly impact this value:


    

  • Museum-quality examples with original box can exceed $4,000
    • 

  • Pieces with documented provenance may command premium prices
    • 

  • Examples with restoration or replacement parts usually sell for 30-50% less
    • 

  • Non-functional mechanisms significantly reduce value
    • 



The market has shown steady appreciation over the past decade, with exceptional examples seeing the strongest growth in value.

How do I maintain the mechanism in my Rabbit in Cabbage automaton? 
Proper maintenance of your automaton's mechanism includes:

    

  1. Limited operation (2-3 times monthly maximum) to reduce wear
    2. 

  2. Gentle winding of the key until you feel resistance (never force)
    3. 

  3. Application of high-quality clock oil to moving parts every 3-5 years
    4. 

  4. Storage in stable climate conditions (65-70°F, 45-55% humidity)
    5. 

  5. Professional servicing every 10-15 years for valuable examples
    6. 



If you notice grinding sounds, irregular movement, or if the music becomes distorted, stop operating the automaton and consult a specialist in mechanical antiques or automaton restoration.

Are there any modern reproductions of Rabbit in Cabbage automatons? 
Yes, there are modern reproductions of Rabbit in Cabbage automatons, though they are not common. These reproductions range from:

    

  • High-quality artist-made limited editions that openly identify as modern pieces
    • 

  • Museum-authorized replicas sometimes produced for exhibitions
    • 

  • Lower-quality tourist souvenirs and decorative items inspired by the original design
    • 



Modern reproductions typically lack the fine craftsmanship of the originals and use contemporary materials like synthetic fabrics and modern adhesives. They generally sell for $100-$400 depending on quality.


Be wary of pieces represented as antique but priced significantly below market value, as these may be reproductions presented as originals.

What is the history behind the Rabbit in Cabbage automaton design? 
The Rabbit in Cabbage automaton was developed in Paris in the late 19th century, primarily by the firm of Roullet & Decamps. The design reflected Victorian and Edwardian fascination with nature, whimsy, and mechanical novelties.

The design may have been inspired by:


    

  • European folklore about rabbits and fertility
    • 

  • Interest in botanical subjects in Victorian decorative arts
    • 

  • Children’s stories featuring anthropomorphic animals
    • 



These automatons were marketed as luxury toys for wealthy families and as curiosities for adult collectors. They represented the intersection of fine mechanical craftsmanship and artistic decoration that characterized French automaton production during its golden age (1880s-1930s).


The Rabbit in Cabbage has become one of the most iconic automaton designs from this period, representing the charm and whimsy of antique mechanical toys.

Where can I find the key for my Rabbit in Cabbage automaton if it's missing? 
If the original key for your Rabbit in Cabbage automaton is missing, you have several options:

    

  1. 

    Specialized Dealers: Automaton specialists like The House of Automata often have compatible keys or can create replacements
    

    2. 

  2. 

    Clock Supply Houses: Companies that supply watchmakers and clock repairers offer general replacement keys that may work
    

    3. 

  3. 

    Custom Fabrication: A skilled clockmaker can measure your mechanism and create a custom key
    

    4. 

  4. 

    Auction Houses: Sometimes keys are sold separately at specialized auctions
    

    5. 

  5. 

    Collector Communities: Other automaton collectors may have compatible spare keys
    

    6. 



Important: Using an improper key can damage the mechanism. The key should fit snugly without forcing and should be the correct size. When in doubt, consult a professional before attempting to wind the mechanism with a replacement key.

How rare are Rabbit in Cabbage automatons today? 
Rabbit in Cabbage automatons are genuinely rare, especially examples in original condition. While exact production numbers are unknown:

    

  • It’s estimated that fewer than 1,000 were originally produced
    • 

  • Many examples have been lost, damaged, or significantly altered over time
    • 

  • Complete, original examples with working mechanisms likely number in the low hundreds
    • 

  • Examples with original boxes are exceptionally rare
    • 



Their rarity contributes to their desirability among collectors, with the finest examples typically selling quickly when they appear at auction. Museums have also acquired many top examples, further reducing the available supply in the private market.


This scarcity, combined with increasing collector interest, has contributed to steady appreciation in value for quality examples over the past several decades.

External Resources for Rabbit in Cabbage Automaton Collectors

Conclusion

The Rabbit in Cabbage automaton represents a perfect blend of mechanical ingenuity and artistic charm from a bygone era. These whimsical creations continue to captivate collectors with their delightful movement and historical significance.

For collectors, these pieces represent not just a delightful mechanical curiosity, but a tangible connection to the golden age of European automaton craftsmanship. Their increasing rarity and steady appreciation make them both a joy to own and a potentially sound investment.

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or newly fascinated by these charming mechanical treasures, understanding their history, value factors, and proper care will help you make informed decisions when buying, selling, or preserving these delightful pieces of mechanical history.

Item Price Date Auction House
Roullet & Decamps Rabbit in Cabbage (c.1890) $2,750 April 2020 Potter Auctions
Boxed Decamps Rabbit in Cabbage $2,151 September 2016 Christie's
Roullet & Decamps Rabbit in Cabbage (c.1930) $1,800 December 2021 Bonhams
Musical Rabbit in Cabbage Clockwork Automaton $1,600 March 2022 Pook & Pook
60% Value Premium for Original Box Having the original box can increase value by up to 60% for rare models
35% Market Growth Average price increase observed over the past decade for museum-quality examples
$4,000+ Record Prices Highest documented prices for exceptional examples with provenance