The Karl Griesbaum "Drunkard"
Purchased this Carved German Whistler Black Forest Lamp Post Drunk, by Karl Griesbaum
The Karl Griesbaum "Drunkard" or "Hobo" leaning on a lamp post is a famous mechanical automaton made in Triberg, Germany, within the Black Forest region. (Circa 1920)
The Movement: A clockwork brass mechanism is hidden inside the hollowed-out back torso of the wooden figure. When wound with a specialized key and activated by a lever, a gear assembly pushes a rod that moves his head from side to side.
The Lamp: The top of the lamp post houses a small light bulb behind red glass panels. A battery compartment is hidden in the bottom base (usually taking "D" or adapted batteries). As the figure whistles, an internal brass arm completes an electrical circuit, making the lamp flicker or glow red.
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