Automata: Life & Other Illusions

Lot #96:

A Private Conversation. Animatronic Automaton.

A Private Conversation. Animatronic Automaton. Hinxton: Philip Lowndes, 2016. The two carved wooden busts interact with the viewers, switching on when people are present, activating the figures which chat with each other. Eyes, jaws, and heads move. Should a viewer get too close to the figures, the people “stop their discussions and turn to stare at the interloper.” Heads carved from lime wood, case made of beech with brass components, finished in acrylic. Height 13 ½”. Can be operated in “gallery” or “manual” modes. Maker’s label affixed to base. Very good working condition. VIEW VIDEO