276: AN EARLY 20THC HUNTING DOG AND DOVE MECHANICAL TARGET

This appears to be the only known example of this mechanical shooting gallery target made by William Wurfflein, Philadelphia, PA in the early 20th century. A strike on the concentric ring bullseye would trigger the appearance or disappearance of an iron dove in sheet iron silhouette from behind the stylized dog figure with up-swept tail and traces of old park paint. Signed in cast letters back side of the dog with numeral 15. Illustrated in Wurfflein's May, 1890 catalog as part number 15.

Pictured on page 52 of Sellers' book (Figure 3.22). This is the only example the Tuckers have seen or heard of in their 30 years of collecting.
Measures 8.25 x 21 inches, excluding stand.
Very good original condition, there are no issues of damage or repair, the working condition and entirety of the mechanism is unknown.
$3,500 - $5,000