Mephisto (Automaton)

Mephisto was the name given to a chess-playing 'pseudo-automaton' built in 1876.

Related Topics:
Chess - 1876

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Constructed by Charles Gumpel, a manufacturer of artificial limbs, Mephisto was controlled from another room by electro-mechanical means and was originally operated by the chess master Isidor Gunsberg.

Related Topics:
Charles Gumpel - Isidor Gunsberg

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It was the first automaton to win a Chess tournament when it was entered in the Counties Chess Association in London in 1878.

Related Topics:
Counties Chess Association - London

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In 1879 Mephisto, with Gunsberg, went on tour, defeating every male player. When playing ladies however, Mephisto would first obtain a winning position before losing the game; courteously offering to shake their hand afterwards.

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