I usually scan e-bay listings in which I have an interest even
if I'm not buying.  Recently there was a listing for an automaton
described as Victorian.  The most desirable and costly automatons
were made in that period, but many have been and are being made since
WW2.

As an indication of its authenticity, the makers name, as inscribed
upon it, it was cited.  I have met the maker in France and obviously
he wasn't working in the Victorian era.  I emailed the seller with
that information but no change was made in the listing.  I did not
email the bidder; perhaps I should have.

Moe Goldy