A paper mache head figure of Mephisto (the devil) has painted features to simulate an evil man, with widely curved brows, exaggerated nose, and mohair moustache and goatee. he has wooden block torso, hands and legs, and appears to be balanced on two metal crutches held in each hand. His right knee is bent as though he is limping. There is a long curled tail at the back. he wears his original purple silk satin costume with metallic trim, black velvet cape and cap with Devil horns, and black velvet slippers. There is an ormolu gargoyle crest on his chest.
Movements: The devil is wound from a large cast iron key that fits into the mechanism at side torso. There does not appear to be an on/off lever and although it is certain that he was designed to walk, the strategy of movement is unclear, and he continues to stand without walking. The description "boiteux" indicates crippled and the inclusion of crutches and bent knee suggest a symbolic mechanical action.
Historical References: The piece appeared in the Etrennes holiday catalog of the Paris department store, Au Louvre, in December 1884, with an illustration of the exact piece, named Le Diable Boiteux, (the crippled devil) and described simply as "marche automatique, rich costume satin", selling at 46F. Curca 1885.