Maillardet's Automaton
As Photographed by James P. Riser
at the
Franklin Institute in Philadelphia
Copyright 2011 by
James P. Riser
This automaton is the example of perfection to which
all makers of such items hope to attain. This is the real thing
- no computer assisted movements.
The eyes and eyelids move.
The drawing and writing are done by the right hand.
The various "programs" are stored on these
brass control cams in the base.
These cams control rods which go up the back of the
little man to control his hand.
A simulation of this marvelous automaton may be seen
in the Hugo movie.
More information and video may be found on the Franklin
Institute web site.