Bidspirit auction | Circa 1900 Horizontal Stationary Live

Circa 1900 Horizontal Stationary Live Steam Engine Model - A horizontal stationary live steam engine model of German manufacture. The engine features a cylindrical boiler constructed from dark patinated metal, likely brass or copper, mounted atop a decorative cast-metal firebox and base. The base and firebox are ornamented with embossed scrollwork and stylized floral cartouches. A single-action cylinder mechanism is mounted to the side, featuring a piston rod connected to a crank and a red-painted cast-metal flywheel with six spokes. The assembly includes a steam delivery pipe, a safety valve, and a steam whistle fitted with a turned wooden handle. A removable spirit burner with a single wick is located within the vented firebox section. The firebox and base assembly feature embossed silver-toned decorative cartouches on both sides; however, these motifs are stylized floral designs and do not contain legible text, maker names, or marks. No other manufacturer labels, stamps, or marks are visible on the components. The boiler and whistle assembly measures approximately 7.5 inches in length according to the scale provided. The engine shows significant oxidation and surface pitting throughout the boiler (photo 1). The original finish is heavily worn with notable loss and discoloration to the dark patina (photo 3). The red paint on the flywheel and supports is chipped and worn, exposing the underlying metal (photo 8). Visible solder repairs are present at the boiler ends and around the steam pipe attachments (photo 7). The spirit burner shows heavy rust and soot buildup (photo 6). The decorative cast-metal base has lost much of its original plating, resulting in a dull, mottled gray appearance (photo 2). A filler plug is present but shows surface corrosion (photo 4). The internal wick shows signs of charring from previous use (photo 6).