This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/26/2019
Harlequin Automaton and Table. Flein: Rüdgier Deutsch, ca. 1999. A handsome chest with curved lid and inlaid marquetry designs is placed on a handsome conjuring table. Of its own accord, the lid of the box flips open, and from inside jumps a miniature Harlequin dressed in bright checkered clothes and matching hat. He comes to rest on the edge of the box, looks back and forth at the audience, and proceeds to interact with the performer and the spectators, balancing on his hands and feet, nodding and turning to review the crowd. The magician offers the Harlequin a pipe, which the figure smokes. Next, the Harlequin plays a small brass whistle. Then the doll blows out the flame of a burning candle, and finally flips himself back inside the box and closes its lid to conclude the routine. The mechanical table is outfitted with numerous traps, pistons, and other mechanical appliances for effects unrelated to the Harlequin itself, including the vanish of a rabbit, the production of stacks of coins, and other conjuring feats. Brass crossbar assembly included, for the hanging of a spirit bell, drum, or other props. Includes a sham brass key to apparently wind the automaton before the performance begins. The table is finely made of hardwood, with cast metal accents. Table 37 ½ x 25 ¾ x 33”. New rubber tubing required (easily replaced). Table covering worn from use. All other elements in very good working condition. One of two constructed, and unquestionably the most ambitious and finest prop to come from Rudiger Deutsch’s workshop. Favored by Robert Heller and others, the Harlequin provided a lengthy, funny, amazing, interactive interlude in the program of many a nineteenth century conjurer. A “false automaton,” the Harlequin was operated by an offstage or concealed assistant who responded to the performer’s directions as the show progressed. This version, modeled on original props in the collection of Jacques Voignier and John Gaughan, was used in performance by Deutsch with great success. The table, replete with its dozens of secret mechanical accouterments and gimmicks, is a technical masterpiece, and the elegant nature of each element of the props cannot be overstated.