Houdiniana

Satyr Head Automaton. Middleburg, Va.: Collectors’ Workshop, ca. 1990s. Heavily cast bronze satyr’s head with exposed works, designed after the nineteenth century models, with a clockwork mechanism which causes the figure’s eyes and teeth move. At the finale, the satyr’s grotesquely long tongue unfurls, revealing two selected cards, and a moment later two more cards to spring up between his horns. Claw-footed base with manufacturer’s plaque to rear. Height 22”. Padded carrying crate. Recently examined and adjusted to working condition. Video on request.