Acrobat on Ladder Automaton by Michel Marcu

Description:

Acrobat on Ladder Automaton by Michel Marcu, late 20th century, with papier-mache head, green glass eyes, dramatic eye make-up, blonde hair wig, and metal hands, balancing on swaying ladder, the going-barrel movement in the base playing two airs, in sequined white silk clown suit with red satin bodice, yellow net ruff, pointed shoes and matching hat encircled by emanating brass "rays", ht. raised 27 in.
Note: Inspired by the work of Lambert and Roullet et Decamps, Marcu's acrobat rises slowly from standing position with both hands on the swaying ladder. As his body approaches a vertical hand-stand, he raises his left arm with a flourish and seems to transfer all his weight to the right, as he moves away from the ladder into a forty-five degree arc, and his legs bend from the knee. He repeats this motion three times, before returning gracefully to his original position.
Estimate $3,000-4,000

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