Automata

The automata were essential viewing for an horologist visiting the Bowes museum in Barnard Castle!  The swan (see extra) is one of the most famous 18th century automata in the world. The swan is life-size and is controlled by three separate clockwork mechanisms. The silver swan rests on a stream made of twisted glass rods interspersed with silver fish. When the mechanism is wound up, the glass rods rotate, the music begins, and the swan twists its head to the left and right and appears to preen its back. It then appears to sight a fish in the water below and bends down to catch it, which it then swallows as the music stops and it resumes its upright position. We will forgive the maker for the ignoring the fact that swans do not eat fish!
However, I have chosen for my blip a tiny jewel encrusted automaton given by John Bowes to his French wife as a love token. It scuttles around and twitches its whiskers. Charming.