Lot 238: Vintage Live Steam Model Engine Mounted on a Perforated Steel Chassis
A vintage live steam model engine featuring a horizontal brass boiler and a single-cylinder mechanism. The boiler, showing surface oxidation and heat-related discolouration, is supported by a black-painted sheet metal firebox. A red-painted spoked flywheel is mounted to the side of the engine assembly. The entire unit is mounted onto a green-painted perforated steel chassis, which features four red-painted metal wheels. The chassis construction is composed of interchangeable components characteristic of early 20th-century metal building sets. The engine includes a brass steam pipe and a red-painted control valve wheel. No maker’s marks, signatures, or embossed brand names are visible on the engine, boiler, or chassis components.
Condition report:
The model shows significant wear consistent with age and mechanical use. The brass boiler and steam pipes exhibit heavy patina and soot staining (photo 1). The black paint on the firebox shows surface losses and oxidation (photo 1). Significant paint chipping and loss are evident on the red-painted flywheel and all four wheels, exposing the underlying metal (photo 1). The green-painted perforated chassis shows surface scuffing and minor oxidation around the bolt holes (photo 1). The item appears to be incomplete, lacking a spirit lamp burner and drive belts.
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