Dulieu, Jean (1921-2006) Marionette Orchestra, ca. 1968-1969

Ceramic orchestra, hand-made by Dulieu with various materials, fabrics and clothes and minature instruments. Following the success of his marionette series Paulus the Woodgnome, Jean Dulieu embarked on an ambitious new project: a marionette orchestra. The ensemble consists of sixteen musicians and a conductor, originally designed to be brought to life mechanically through modified typewriters.

From the surviving components*, it appears that Dulieu had planned a much larger orchestra. However, the project was never completed, as he turned his attention to an animated film production. Further study suggests that some of the orchestra members may have been modelled after real people. The violinist—whose nose is damaged—bears a striking resemblance to the violinist Ferdinand Helmann (1880–1954), while the head of the conductor recalls the composer Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872–1958). There is also mention of a certain Mr. Stips, although it remains unknown which instrument he represented. The harpist, in turn, shows features reminiscent of Rahel Ethel Mengelberg-Draber (1908–)1994). Added: Several heads, limbs and instruments. (total 17) *Collection Otto van der Mieden. With special thanks to Jaap Albers and Rudy Vrooman for their expertise.