Automata

Musical automaton “Juggler”

    Musical automaton “Juggler”

    France

    Circa 1890

    Steel, brass, fabric, wood, glass, papier-mâché; mechanical work, joinery, sewing, painting, wood carving

    45 x 37.5 x 21.5 cm

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    The automaton is mounted on the shaped wooden base with rounded sides, finished in glossy black lacquer and raised on small turned feet. A stage with rounded backdrop that turns into a semi-dome and is painted black on the outside is on the upper side of the base. The inner surface features depicted wings and borders. Mirrors are placed in the background of the stage.

    The spring-driven mechanism of the automaton is mounted inside the base. The winding key is inserted into a keyhole located on the base rear side, and the start button is placed on the right side. When the mechanism is activated, the figure comes to life: the cigar begins to rotate, the juggler's right leg moves as if nudging it, the right hand holding the ring makes slight movements, and the head rises and falls.

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    2357.1-3/ММП