The tumbler toy was derived from the East and has a variety of names, most representing stability in some way.

In France during the late 18th century many of these figures depended on mercury for the balancing movement.

In Germany little tumbling dolls were connected by hollow rods containing mercury, the dolls appeared to somersault over one another down stairs.

The Tumbling Clown was a great favourite in Victorian times, inspired by the entertainers of the day at fairs and circuses.