Re: "Magic Dolls" (MMD 96.11.27)
By Michael Woolf
Damon Atchison mentions the Swiss automaton figures made by father and son Pierre Jaquet-Droz (1721-1790) and Henri-Louis Jaquet-Droz (1752-1791), together with Jaquet-Droz senior's adopted son Jean Frederic Leschot (1746-1827) . These three mechanical figures were first shown publicly in 1774. They are perhaps the most famous examples of the art of the automaton-maker. They are the Draftsman, the Artist and the Clavecin-Player. The Draftsman writes any of a number of messages on cards; the Artist draws exsquisite little pictures and the Clavecin Player (the only female figure) plays on the keyboard of a little organ. The figures must be amongst the world's recognised works of art. The craftsmanship is without flaw. they may be viewed at the Musee d'Art et d'Histoire, Neuchatel, Switzerland. I had the privilege of a private showing twenty years ago. It was an experience I will always treasure. The figures are quite well documented and if there is further interest in this field I can provide a reading list. I am the owner of an automaton magician figure possible by Maillardet, which I am presently restoring.
Best wishes to all
michael woolf
New Zealand |
(Message sent Fri 29 Nov 1996, 04:29:28 GMT, from time zone GMT-0500.) |
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