Hoyt Life Picture Automaton of a Black Farmer

An original circa 1900 automaton, that depicts the changing expressions of a black farmer, as he radiantly smiles. These 'life pictures' were made by German company Hoyt, between 1890 and 1910, and feature a near silent wind-up clockwork mechanism that drives the changing expression of the subject..

Framed in original black glazed frame, with the back missing (perhaps install a piece of perspex to the rear so the fantastic mechanism remained visible?).

40.5cm x 53cm x 8cm deep

The video is a must see!

These are now rare to the market collectors pieces.