Antique miniature spinning wheel automaton made of bone

This interesting automaton of a woman spinning wool is currently for sale on ebay. When the handle is turned, the spinning wheel spins. The female figure lifts her left arm, pulling the wool, as she turns her head from side to side.

The piece measures 1-1/4 inches wide by 2 inches long and a little over 4 inches high. While the seller is not certain of its provenance, a search on the internet revealed similar examples that were described as "French Prisoner of War creations", which were made from scraps of cow and pig bone. The prisoner of war notion certainly adds a lot of interest and backstory if true. The piece is possibly from the 1840s.

I love the small spur gear and the mating lantern pinion. I also love the shape of the handle as well as the pulley that drives the spinning wheel. The material, whatever it is, is interesting and looks like it machines or carves well. A fascinating piece of kinetic folk art.

Check out a bunch of large, detailed photographs as well as the rather hot bidding action on this antique miniature spinning wheel automaton.

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So, how do sewing machines work anyway? Here's your answer!

Have you ever wondered how a sewing machine works? I know I have. I mean...how on earth does the machine bring a thread through one side of the fabric and out the other, locking it in the process? And how does it do it so fast? When was the sewing machine invented and was it by some guy named "Singer"?

This great mystery will be solved once you watch this video, an episode from the classic TV program, The Secret Life of Machines, hosted by Tim Hunkin. Hunkin is a cartoonist, engineer and -- best of all -- automaton-maker. He's made dozens of large, interactive, mechanical sculptures, simulators, and rides to amaze and amuse. His deep understanding of machines, ability to create cartoons, and playful approach make him one of the best teachers around. In the video, Hunkin uses a 6 foot long sewing needle and four people to slowly sew two large sheets of foam together in the same manner as a sewing machine. You also will learn some interesting history (via cartoons) along the way.

Here's a snippet of a drawing by Tim Hunkin related to sewing machines from his book titled The Rudiments of Wisdom: An A-Z of Random, Peculiar and Fascinating Facts...

You can see the complete drawing here.

Here is where you can see more of The Secret Life of Machines with Tim Hunkin.

[ Thanks Ron! ]

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