French Walking Peacock Automaton, M. S. Rau

French Walking Peacock Automaton This absolutely spellbinding peacock automaton is attributed to the French toymaking company Roullet et Decamps. Its papiermâché body contains a highly elaborate clockwork system that allows this handsome bird to come fully to life. When wound and released, the peacock proudly struts forward, turning his head from side to side. After a few steps, he pauses to lift his full fan of distinctive tail feathers, opening them for an impressive display. He holds his stance for a