Vintage very rare and unique artistic animated opera stage model. 
 
Opera lovers are in for a rare treat. This is an artistically crafted wooden model of a set for Act II of AIDA (performed at the Metropolitan Opera in N.Y.C. in the 1970s), When a crank on the side of the model is turned the small wood carved figurines all move one way or another. It is a very intricate construction. The characters, in authentic costumes, represent Aida, Radames, Amonasro, Ramfis and the King of Egypt. They are placed in a colorfully painted set. The creator of the miniature set was the renowned artist and Artistic Director of the Central City Opera, Frank “Pancho” Gates. He was a set designer and built models for many international Opera Houses. His credentials are impressive. Some of his creations are in collections like the Getty and the Metropolitan Opera in New York City. These set designs are incredibly rare. Theater and Opera Houses generally keep this pieces in their archives. 
 
Documents and provenance are included (as pictured on back). 
Size: 13 1/4" W x 9 1/2" H x 3" D
 
In working condition Age related wear. Few paint loses.