Christie’s Hong Kong will present a rare selection of music boxes on Dec 2. Leading the auction will be the renowned French Jeweler Mauboussin and the music box specialist Reuge. Inspired by a clown musician from the Italian impromptu comedies from the 17th century, the present automaton is strikingly encrusted with precious stones and gold. The Harlequin himself weighs 1.6kg of 18k gold, is set with 16 carats of diamonds, 8.8 carts of emeralds, 28.6 carats of rubies, 18.7 carats of sapphires and mother-of-pearl set over the Harlequin chest. The Harlequin moves his hands, legs and head in gestures of expression whilst playing the mandolin over melodies taken from the operatic compositions of Jacques Offenbach.