Automata

Musical automaton "Conjuror"

    Musical automaton "Conjuror"

    France, Paris

    circa 1890

    Lambert, Léopold

    Papier-mache, leather, wood, metal, fabric; sewing, mechanical work, embroidery

    61 x 28 x 19 cm

    On the key: “LB”

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    Musical automaton in the form of a conjuror's figure, standing on a pedestal covered with burgundy velvet and trimmed with multicolored braid with tassels. The conjuror has brown glass eyes, moving eyelids, chestnut hair, rosy cheeks, beard and mustache. He is dressed in a tailcoat, short pants, socks and black satin shoes, white shirt with a jabot and a bow tie, vest made of brocade. Brooch with faceted green transparent stone is on the lapel. The conjuror holds a magic wand in his left hand and a glass in his right one. He stands behind a table covered with a green woolen cloth with embroidery and braid made of metal with fringe.
    The musical movement with sound comb, pinned cylinder for ten melodies and spring motor is mounted in the pedestal. Winding key and start/stop button are on the rear side. When the movement is turned on, the music sounds, the conjuror rises a thimble with his right hand and  in succession makes to appear and disappear four items: cards, coin, dices and jewels. The actions are repeated. Simultaneously the conjuror turns his head right-left, up and down, moves his uner-jaw, opens and closes his eyes.

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    Инв.2228/ММП