(Automaton Chess Player) | It even speaks French

(Automaton Chess Player)
Maelzel's Exhibition, Concert Hall. Boston: The Evening Gazette Office, [1833]

Broadside (565 x 220 mm). Numerous fonts, text within Greek Key pattern border, mounted on paper; minor marginal soiling. Mounted, framed, and glazed with Plexiglas; not examine out of frame.

"Invented by De Kempelin, improved by J. Maelzel"

According to this broadside, "The Chess Player has withstood the first Players of Europe and America, and excited universal admiration. He moves his head, eyes lips, and hands, with the greatest facility, and distinctly pronounces the word 'Echee,' (the French word signifying 'Check') when necessary. If a mis-move is made, he perceives and rectifies it."

REFERENCE:
Exemplars, p. 183

Condition Report:
Condition as described in catalogue entry.

In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.