|
Hi All,
And hi, DWest. These figures are known as Jumping-Jacks here in America, and as Hempelmann in Germany. They usually depict people, but animals are occasionally seen. I'm attaching an internet drawing of the attachment points on the back of a Hampelmann, and also note the small line drawing included with the artwork of the four despots. The arms and legs are secured (riveted) to the torso so that they will move when the interconnected strings are pulled. The drawing of the bear does not show a loop or string at its top. The head must be held firmly when the bottom string is pulled to make the arms and legs move up and down. Interestingly, this attachment point on your evil quartet is shown on the small line drawing as a noose.
I haven't built a Hampelmann yet, but I have a few in my digital collection. As an aside, I think that's von Ribbentrop on the far left.
Good (if a little bit disturbing) find.
Score and fold,
Thumb Dog
|