TromboneChat

I'm sure this was the perfect gift for some fin de siècle trombonist, perhaps upon graduation from the Conservatoire.

Musical automaton by Roullet & Decamps. 38cm high, c1890, Paris.

The pig plays a trombone and lifts his ears and hat. Restored in 2022 with exact replica clothes with mouse embroidery as indicated by the drawing in the 19th century makers catalogue. The papier mache body is finely formed and sculptural so the clothes are easily removable.

this Facebook video gives a glimpse of the arm mechanism:

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1006466898140156

The channel has many musical contraptions. A few depict actual musicians.

I've never seen a cello played side-saddle like this, even in old paintings.
Do you suppose that was a thing, somehow, somewhere?




Another odd practice... playing the keyboard with one hand so the music may be held in the other.

I presume that is his music. Perhaps he's re-reading his contract.

robcat2075 wrote: Fri Aug 22, 2025 10:36 am Perhaps he's re-reading his contract.

I'm pretty sure it's not his HR policy.
That is a terrible automaton.