Posed upon a wooden cabinet that contains the mechanical movement is a highly characterized man with carved wooden head and hands. He is standing with drumstick in each hand, a drum suspended from his shoulders. The man has a loosely jointed carved wooden head, featuring carved tousled hair, carved definitions of ruddy large nose, wrinkles, two warts, and closed mouth. He has movable glass eyes. The torso, legs and arms are of heavy paper mache over a cast metal armature for strength, and his hands and feet are carved wood. The man wears an early costume comprising velvet jacket, silk vest with trapunto stitching, and velvet pants. His shoes and stockings are sculpted and painted. The mechanism winds from a handle at the side. The mechanical works are visible from the hinged cabinet door at the back.
Movements: He nods and turns his head, causing the eyes to move back and forth. He beats the drum, each arm moving independently of the other, although in synchronism. The movement is prolonged.
Historical References: An exceptional and important carved mechanical piece, probably the late 18th/early 19th century, whose highly stylistic carving is in the manner of Neopolitan figures of the late 18th century. The large size of the piece suggests its purpose as an exhibition model, as does the repetitive drumming action and sound that would certainly serve to attract the passer-by. The carving and original oil-painted features and complexion are superbly achieved and preserved. Circa 1800.