This automaton features a mechanical arm trying to touch a small bird. The bird’s shape and finish are reminiscent of the automata inside clocks and music boxes made in the region. Whenever the arm gets too close, the bird moves out of reach and immediately hides under a trap… only to reappear and for this game of hide-and-seek to begin again. This interaction between the two figures, which have been 3D-printed in titanium, is made possible simply by a series of cams: parts that transmit and transform the movement of a mechanism. The metal figures’ specific, asymmetrical shape produces a completely random rhythm which makes the scene all the more realistic and amusing.
Detailed Features
● Type: Automaton
● Dimensions: 75 L x 30 W x 160 H cm
● Material: Titanium, carbon composite, brass, aluminium, stainless steel, lacquered wood
● Date: 2022
Masters at work: Watchmaking and Métiers d'Art Vacheron Constantin in partnership with the Musée du Louvre Watchmaking
Ireland Indigo "Vortex" Gráinne Watts Ceramicist
Italy “La sposa del Sole” – Scena finale Compagnia Marionettistica Carlo Colla & Figli Puppetry
Germany Purple Mantis Tina Kraus Paper worker