Ornamental turning 'rose-engine' lathe, oak wood base, superstructure, automaton mechanism fixed to underside of base, and flywheel fixed to top of superstructure, with both the lathe and superstructure fixed to oak wood base, unsigned, Germany, c. 1740
This lathe automatically produced a complex geometrical pattern, cut into a small round piece of wood. In so doing it replicated the work of a human turner, who could decorate things such as watchcases or medallions.
The lathe’s astonishing design reflects that it was made for someone wealthy – it is traditionally associated with King Frederick the Great of Prussia, who was also a turner. Possessing this wondrous machine, performing its lifelike task, would have emphasised Frederick’s position as a great statesman.