Damon Atchison mentions the Swiss automaton figures made by father and
son Pierre Jaquet-Droz (1721-1790) and Henri-Louis Jaquet-Droz
(1752-1791), together with Jaquet-Droz senior's adopted son Jean
Frederic Leschot (1746-1827) . These three mechanical  figures were
first shown publicly in 1774. They are perhaps the most famous examples
of the art of the automaton-maker. They are the Draftsman, the Artist
and the Clavecin-Player. The Draftsman writes any of a number of
messages on cards; the Artist draws exsquisite little pictures and the
Clavecin Player (the only female figure) plays on the keyboard of a
little organ. The figures must be amongst the world's recognised works
of art. The craftsmanship is without flaw. they may be viewed at the
Musee d'Art et d'Histoire, Neuchatel, Switzerland. I had the privilege
of a private showing twenty years ago. It was an experience I will
always treasure. The figures are quite well documented and if there is
further interest in this field I can provide a reading list. I am the
owner of an automaton magician figure possible by Maillardet, which I
am presently restoring.

Best wishes to all¶
michael woolf¶
New Zealand