Imagine stepping into an ancient temple or royal court, and your eyes land on a majestic bird that suddenly flaps its wings or a knight who springs to life upon a hidden cue. Centuries before today’s robots and artificial intelligence, our ancestors crafted automata, which were mechanical marvels that moved, performed, and even seemed alive long before silicon chips and electricity were a thing. But here’s what really makes this story extraordinary: Many of these mesmerizing devices were sha...