Whimsical Found-Object Robot Sculpture
Handcrafted by David | One-of-a-Kind
These robots are impossible not to smile at.
This new batch is different from our earlier releases (which sold out quickly). We waited almost a year for these to come together. David travels extensively collecting vintage croquet balls, and once he finally has enough, he begins fabricating. We were lucky enough to get our hands on this small group.
Each robot is completely handmade using reclaimed and repurposed materials. No molds. No repeats. Once they’re gone, there won’t be another run just like them.
They make great garden accents, but if I’m honest, most people end up displaying them indoors — on shelves, desks, bonsai tables, or anywhere they want a little personality.
About the Artist
David is a traveling artist who crisscrosses the U.S. collecting forgotten objects, discarded hardware, and time-worn materials. His work blends curiosity, craftsmanship, and humor. When inspiration hits, those salvaged pieces turn into playful, character-driven sculptures that feel equal parts industrial, whimsical, and human.
About These Robots
Each robot is assembled entirely by hand using reclaimed materials. Details vary from piece to piece, but typically include:
- Bodies made from solid reclaimed croquet balls, showing natural wear and character
- Heads crafted from vintage oil cans, soaked and cleaned, giving each robot its signature silhouette
- Eyes made from bottle caps and hardware, adding a subtle steampunk feel
- Arms and legs formed from bent metal rod
- Hands and feet welded from vintage screws and fasteners — a detail you’ll appreciate more the longer you look
The scratches, patina, and wear are intentional. These aren’t flaws — they’re part of the story and proof of a previous life.
Approximate Dimensions
Because each robot is handmade, sizes vary slightly:
- Height: approx. 16”–21”
- Width: approx. 6”
- Depth: approx. 5”
Each listing is for one unique robot, and the exact sculpture shown is the one you’ll receive.
Display Ideas
- On bonsai benches or display tables
- On shelves, desks, or sideboards
- As a standalone sculptural accent in a studio, office, or living space
They pair especially well with bonsai, stone displays, and other handmade or natural objects.
Availability
This is a very limited release. I purchased everything David had available. Once these sell, there are no restocks planned.
If you’re drawn to folk art, reclaimed materials, or objects with real personality, this is a rare chance to own something truly one-of-a-kind.
Learning Resources and Bonsai Tree Care Guides:
Bonsai trees are not all the same - and neither is their care. Read our specific care sheets for individual bonsai species. Read the Bonsai Care Guides
Shipping Bonsai Trees:
Bonsai trees are generally shipped on Mondays & Tuesdays to avoid having them stay in the boxes for any extra time over the weekends.
Shipping Non-Tree Items
All non-bonsai items such as bonsai pots and bonsai supplies are shipped within 48 hours of receiving payment. Most orders are shipped either the same day or the next day, depending on the time of day the order is received.
Important Guidelines:
** We cannot ship to a FPO, APO, P.O. Box or to locations in Alaska, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Hawaii or anywhere internationally.
** All Bonsai are shipped direct from the nursery and may ship separately from other items purchased via the Bonsai Outlet.
** If extreme weather is expected, we may delay shipping your Bonsai tree to guarantee a healthy arrival; in such a case we will contact you. We are shipping living trees and must be conscious of the temperature conditions to the delivery address, as well as, while in transit. That said, we reserve the right to hold the tree(s) to guarantee a healthy delivery. We will Hold Your Tree Until It is Safe to Ship.
