Lot 167: Tom Haney Automaton Sculpture, James K. Polk/They Might Be Giants

Tom Haney (American/North Carolina, b. 1962) polychrome painted wood automaton sculpture featuring a marionette of the U.S. president from Tennessee, James K. Polk, presented as a marionette on a proscenium modeled after the Tennessee State Capitol building. Polk’s movements on the stage are controlled by a switch at the lower side of the case via a Victrola motor powered by four cams and levers inside. Signed en verso. 37 in. H x 18 in. W x 11 in. D. Note: Haney created this piece in 2005 for a Seattle gallery show organized around the music of the rock band “They Might be Giants.” It was inspired by their song “James K. Polk”. Lyrics to the song are painted on the sides of the automaton case.

PROVENANCE: The collection of Ronnie Steine, Nashville, TN.

CONDITION: Excellent condition, fully functional.