Leaping Lion

Clockwork Lion by Roullet & Decamps c.1900. Fur covered papier mache body with the mechanism mounted on a wooden base, the head with voluminous fur mane and piercing glass eyes. When wound and the start lever pulled out the Lion commences turning his head left and right whilst emitting a whirring growl. Slowly the Lion crouches back on his hind legs before unexpectedly ….. leaping into the air!

This is one of the most sought after of the Roullet & Decamps animals and is always great fun to demonstrate.

Price: £2,000.  The mechanism is guaranteed good working order for two years.

VIDEO HERE and HERE

Note: The more common variation of this automaton is the Tiger, the Lion is rare in comparison.