Technology from the 18th and 19th century often seems downright steampunk, when one considers the amazing advances mechanical geniuses made in mechanisms such as clocks, music boxes, and automatons, which were quite literally, robots, or androids. No, they didn’t go about shouting “Danger, Will Robinson” or make friends with humans or even take over the world (or ship), but they did move in complex ways. In the case of this charming automaton, they could also play music. This particular marvel was created by German engineers Pierre Kintzing and David Roentgen in the 18th century for Queen Marie Antoinette. During the French revolution, it was badly damaged. Robert Houdin recognized its value and restored it in 1864. What is truly unique about this android over others of her era, is she actually makes the music, rather than simply moving while music is played by hidden gears. Remarkable, isn’t it?

Enjoy!

 

© Til productions – Jean-Luc Muller Tiré des bonus du DVD “ROBERT-HOUDIN une vie de magicien”

Author of Historical Romance and Fantasy, award-winning author Donna Hatch is a sought-after speaker and workshop presenter. Her writing awards include the Golden Rose and the prestigious Golden Quill. Her passion for writing began at age 8 she wrote her first short story, and she wrote her first full-length novel during her sophomore year in high school, a fantasy which was later published. In between caring for six children, (7 counting her husband), her day job, her work as a freelance editor and copywriter, and her many volunteer positions, she still makes time to write. After all, writing IS an obsession. All of her heroes are patterned after her husband of over 20 years, who continues to prove that there really is a happily ever after.

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