Yantras or Mechanical Contrivances in Ancient India c2.191

c2.191

The fourth category comprises male and female figures designed for various kinds of automatic service. Each part of these figures is made and fitted separately, with holes and pins, so that thighs, eyes, neck, hand, wrist, forearm and fingers can act according to the need. The material used is mainly wood, but a leather cover is given to complete the impression of a human being. The movements are managed by the system of holes, pins and strings attached to rods controlling each limb. Looking into a mirror, playing a lute and stretching out the hand to touch, give pan, sprinkle water and make obeisance (101-4) are the acts done by these figures. It is one such that provides the mechanical fan in the *Yaśastilaka Campū*.