If objects could talk, what would they say? Well, hot off the press, we have sat down with one of our most famous and ferocious objects here at the V&A – Tippoo’s Tiger, for an exclusive (and of course imaginary) interview. Expect some roaring conversation as we find out about this pawsome automaton’s history, and what it feels like to be adored day in, day out by visitors from around the world. Get your inside scoop here!
Interviewer
Welcome Tippoo’s Tiger! Thank you for taking time out of your busy V&A museum schedule to chat with us. How are you today?
Tippoo’s Tiger
(Growling) Well, I’ve been lying in wait for 200 years, so I’d say I’m feeling pawsitively relaxed. But I tell you, I wouldn’t mind stretching my legs one of these days.
Interviewer
I bet! Now, you’re quite the superstar here at the V&A – can you tell us a little about your back story?
Tippoo’s Tiger
Of course! I was born in the south of India in the late 1700s and delivered to Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore – a man with a taste for drama and a healthy distaste for the British East India Company. I’m part tiger, part mechanical marvel, and 100% a symbol of resistance. My job? To graphically remind people what happens when colonial ambitions meet a tiger’s teeth.
Interviewer
That’s quite a bold statement. I hear you have a built-in organ?
Tippoo’s Tiger
Oh yes, I’m a triple threat: I maul, growl, and play tunes! Back in my heyday, you’d pull a crank, and I’d roar while my British soldier victim screamed. Then I’d serenade the audience with a nice little tune – you know, to take the edge off the screaming part.
Interviewer
A screaming soldier, you say? That sounds a bit intense!
Tippoo’s Tiger
(Giggles) It’s not for the faint-hearted, I’ll admit. But Tipu wasn’t about subtlety. He wanted me to show defiance and, let’s be honest, a bit of theatrical vengeance. You could call me the OG diss machine.
Interviewer
Fascinating. How do you feel about your current role as a museum object?
Tippoo’s Tiger
It’s bittersweet. On one paw, I miss the drama of my original performances. On the other paw, I’ve achieved a kind of immortality here. People come from all over the world to see me. I’ve even inspired memes – imagine that! Tipu never dreamed I’d be famous in this way.
Interviewer
And your thoughts on being housed in Britain, given your history?
Tippoo’s Tiger
It’s ironic, isn’t it? Here I am, designed as a symbol of resistance against British imperialism, now proudly displayed in a British museum. But hey, at least I’m not gathering dust in a corner somewhere.
Interviewer
Fair point! One last question – any advice for modern mechanical objects hoping to achieve iconic status?
Tippoo’s Tiger
Be bold, make a statement, and don’t be afraid to growl loudly when the moment calls for it. Also, a built-in soundtrack doesn’t hurt.
Interviewer
Thank you, Tippoo’s Tiger. It’s been a pleasure.
Tippoo’s Tiger
The pleasure’s all mine. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to do my best glare for the next group of visitors.
