{"title":"7.26 Hidden Treasures","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"19th-century-swiss-gold-musical-vinaigrette","title":"19th-Century Swiss Gold Musical Vinaigrette","description":"This early 19th-century Swiss gold vinaigrette has the charming addition of a musical mechanism. The entire box is crafted of 14K yellow gold enveloped in delicate engine-turned work, black champlevé enamel and engraved detailing. The musical component is wound via a key inserted into the base and activated with the slide button in the front. Gentlemen and ladies utilized the vinaigrette to avoid the pungent smells that were commonplace in the streets of 19th-century cities. The vinaigrette contained a wad of cotton or cloth material, soaked in perfume, vinegar or smelling salts, held in place by a pierced lid that allowed the carrier to inhale the aromatic substance instead of the “less pleasant” odors one could encounter throughout the day.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1820 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 1 1\/4\" wide x 7\/8\" deep x 1\/2\" high \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873572356231,"sku":"30-9263","price":22500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-9263_1.png?v=1770666796"},{"product_id":"musical-jewelry-and-sewing-casket","title":"Musical Jewelry and Sewing Casket","description":"This charming musical jewelry and sewing box is a work of sublime artistry. Almost certainly German or Austrian in origin and crafted of deep, ebonized wood, this chest is adorned with an intricate inlay of engraved copper and brass accented by semi-precious stones and luxurious mother-of-pearl. Inside, the velvet-lined interior includes spaces for rings and four pin cushions, while the front drops down to reveal a hidden drawer for more precious valuables. This box’s musical mechanism is triggered when a slim drawer is pulled out. Additionally, one can house photographs of treasured loved ones in the double picture frame set into the box’s lid.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1910 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 14 ½” wide x 10 7\/8” deep x 7 3\/8” high ","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43874665889927,"sku":"29-8702","price":9850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-8702_1_09c1ff19-bcc3-40dc-847a-a3fd41cb3db9.png?v=1772356355"},{"product_id":"carved-bowenite-ruby-and-diamond-box","title":"Carved Bowenite, Ruby and Diamond Box","description":"This stunning antique box is crafted from a lovely specimen of carved bowenite. The enchanting case sparkles with rubies and diamonds at the thumb piece and hinges, which are formed of silver and yellow gold. Exhibiting all the elegance of its age, this box exudes exquisite sophistication.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n3 1\/2\" wide","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43625666773127,"sku":"30-6963","price":22500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-6963_1.png?v=1769760054"},{"product_id":"bruguier-tortoiseshell-swiss-fusee-singing-bird-box","title":"Bruguier Tortoiseshell Swiss Fusée Singing Bird Box","description":"Swiss Fusée Singing Bird Box\u003cbr\u003e Charles Bruguier\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1840  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This extremely rare, early Swiss automaton singing bird box by the famed Charles Bruguier is housed in a case enveloped in luxurious tortoiseshell. Even more remarkable than its exterior is the masterpiece housed inside. With just the touch of a button, the top cover opens to reveal a singing bird in red and green plumage rising from a pierced gold stage. This model is particularly rare because the tiny bird moves not only his beak but also his head and wings as he chirps his enchanting song. The bird's real hummingbird feathers are radiantly multicolored with a beautiful iridescence. Overall, the detailing of the craftsmanship is absolutely remarkable, from the tortoiseshell exterior to the enameled floral still life on the lid. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Singing bird boxes such as this rare example possess some of the most complicated movements of all automata. The earliest bird boxes were fusee, or chain driven, which meant they played longer and clearer than later models. Few boasted as complex a movement as this example by Bruguier, which is composed of over 350 moving parts. During Bruguier's career, he produced an average of only 27 of these precious boxes per year. This example is among the handful of his creations known to exist in such wonderful working condition, and it is considered among the rarest and finest of all bird boxes.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 3 5\/8\" wide x 2 3\/8\" deep x 1 1\/4\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44572984606855,"sku":"30-7097","price":72500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-7097_1_3def4c7d-69f7-49a8-b72a-abfc7aa7ca70.png?v=1778613675"},{"product_id":"carved-citrine-box","title":"Carved Citrine Box","description":"This exquisite French pill box combines the mastery of the French goldsmithing tradition with the radiance of citrine. The box was crafted by the celebrated French jeweler Gustave-Roger Sandoz, who was renowned for producing exceptional pieces with a variety of gems in the Art Nouveau style. In this example, he brilliantly combined pieces of highly translucent, golden citrine with gold to create the exquisite box. The texture of the carving is exceptional, with a natural and dynamic motif that evokes the very best tenets of the Art Nouveau style. The gold rim is further decorated with tiny beads, while a pearl-mounted gold leaf finial completes the exceptional piece.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMaison Gustave Sandoz was founded in 1861 by Gustave-Roger Sandoz's father, and he succeeded him in 1891. After taking the helm, Sandoz gained a reputation for high-quality gold work and creative gem-set jewelry and objets d'art. He embraced the emerging Art Nouveau style, and often worked in collaboration with the great French glassmaker Emile Gallé, producing elaborate mounts for Gallé's glass creations. He exhibited at the Paris International Exhibition in 1900 where he also sat on the jury.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCirca 1900\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n1 3\/8\" high x 2\" wide x 1 1\/2\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873473822855,"sku":"30-7707","price":24500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-7707_1_d4630f52-7915-4eb5-b3e0-354a8584df00.png?v=1778800955"},{"product_id":"english-mahogany-expanding-table","title":"English Mahogany Expanding Table","description":"This English mahogany circular extension dining table is based on a design by the famed craftsman Robert Jupe. Complete with its original leaves, the table’s circular top is formed of eight segments with a brass tip. When the top is rotated via the removable crank handle, an ingenious mechanism causes the sections to diverge, allowing a set of leaves to be inserted for an increase in space. What was once a table that could seat six to eight individuals easily transforms into a table for 12. This revolutionary mechanism is set upon pedestals that reside in its handsome cross base. Expertly restored, it comes complete with a later leaf-case enclosing its set of eight leaves. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Such designs, known as \"patent furniture,\" are some of the most fascinating pieces of furniture in the world. Tables such as this illustrate perfectly the Regency era's quest to combine technical innovation with superb and beautiful craftsmanship. These pieces are among the most desirable of all antique furnishings, representing the limitless imagination and skill of the cabinetmaker. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1850 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 65 3\/4\" diameter x 30\" high\u003cbr\u003e With leaves: 120\" diameter \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43672838471815,"sku":"30-7869","price":148500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-7869_1_0bc70b46-bcf7-4384-88ba-357b90b834bd.png?v=1769758684"},{"product_id":"exhibition-model-of-expanding-table-by-samuel-hawkins","title":"Exhibition Model of Expanding Table by Samuel Hawkins","description":"A masterpiece of both cabinetmaking and mechanical engineering, this one-of-a-kind expanding table was crafted by the renowned cabinetmaker Samuel Hawkins of London for the Great Exhibition of 1851. Diminutive in size, the fascinating table was designed as a model to demonstrate Hawkins’ innovative patent screw movement to visitors of the Exhibition – six million people in total over five months. It was exhibited again a century later at the Victoria \u0026amp; Albert Museum during the Festival of Britain, an event intended “to symbolise two main qualities of the national character: realism and strength on the one hand, and, on the other, independence and imagination” (Catalogue of the Exhibition, 1951, p.117). To this day, the miniature masterpiece demonstrates the quest of English furniture makers to combine technical innovation with superb craftsmanship. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Displaying exceptional ingenuity, Hawkins’ wind-out screw mechanism allowed one to extend the table’s base to accommodate concentric leaves with the simple crank of a handle. It is based on the inventive expanding table originally designed by Robert Jupe in 1835, which used a swivel mechanism to separate sections of the tabletop and allow for segmented leaves to be inserted. Hawkins’ tabletop, on the other hand, extends outwards directly from the center in order to accommodate additional leaves around its diameter. This unique design allowed the mechanism to also smoothly operate on rectangular tables, which could be wound out from the middle to allow for more table space. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Hawkins was not alone in his endeavor to combine the technical merits of engineering and mechanics with the most artful pursuit of cabinetmaking. The first half of the 19th century saw a prolific increase in the popularity of applying new ideas to traditional furniture principles, which allowed furniture to serve many purposes. The resulting “patent” furniture was practical and refined, though few were as innovative as Hawkins’ prodigious design. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Carved with the year of the Exhibition on the beautifully designed pedestal base, the table is a testament to the significance of this innovation. The model is mentioned in detail in the catalog of the Great Exhibition of 1851, the first international exhibition of industry, manufacturing, and science. Held at London’s dazzling Crystal Palace, its visitors were treated to exhibits from around the globe, including feats of engineering, innovations in industry, and marvels of design. Queen Victoria herself was a frequent visitor, along with her husband, Prince Albert, and others including Charlotte Brontë, Lewis Carroll, Charles Darwin, Alfred Tennyson and Charles Dickens. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Pieces such as this that were made specifically for this seminal exhibition are among the most valuable to be found. Before the age of modern advertising, international exhibitions were the sole opportunity for craftsmen and inventors to market their wares to a mass audience. Thus, each piece was masterfully designed and painstakingly crafted down to the smallest detail, in the hopes that it would make a lasting impression on critics and attendees alike. Without question, this expanding table displays the finest craftsmanship and artistry, and is an unparalleled specimen of English ingenuity and original design. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The table's mechanism is illustrated and described in great detail in the Official Descriptive \u0026amp; Illustrated Catalogue of the Great Exhibition of 1851. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1851\u003cbr\u003e 13” high x 24” diameter \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42776873336967,"sku":"30-5224","price":78500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-5224_1_590daf8e-5381-4c67-8fa0-520a95559a1d.png?v=1749230846"},{"product_id":"expanding-jupe-dining-table-by-johnstone-and-jeanes","title":"Expanding Jupe Dining Table by Johnstone and Jeanes","description":"This exceptionally rare circular expanding dining table was designed by Robert Jupe and crafted by the English cabinetmakers Johnstone \u0026amp; Jeanes, successors to Johnstone, Jupe \u0026amp; Co. One of only a handful known from the firm, this table illustrates the Victorian era's quest to combine technical innovation with superb and beautiful craftsmanship. Complete with its original leaves, the table’s circular top is formed from eight separate segments. When the top is rotated, an ingenious swivel mechanism causes the sections to diverge, allowing a set of small or large leaves to be inserted for an adjustable increase in size. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The design for the table was patented by Robert Jupe in 1835, who had envisioned “an improved expanding table so constructed that the sections composing its surface may be caused to diverge from a common center and that the spaces caused thereby may be filled up by inserting leaves or filling pieces.” The first of these fascinating tables were created between 1835 and 1840 during his partnership with John Johnstone and their firm of Johnstone, Jupe \u0026amp; Co. in London. Jupe left the company in 1840, after which the firm changed its name due to a new partnership and became Johnstone \u0026amp; Jeanes. The firm would eventually achieve international fame for its remarkable designs, exhibiting a \"circular table...made on the expanding principle\" like this one at the Great Exhibition of 1851. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Jupe was not alone in his fascination with combining the technical merits of engineering and mechanics with the more artful pursuit of cabinet making. The first half of the 19th century saw a prolific increase in the popularity of applying new ideas to furniture principles, which allowed furniture to serve many purposes. The resulting “patent” furniture was practical and refined, although none so much as this remarkable and quite stunning table which is equally suited for intimate gatherings or large, formal dinners. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Features brass Johnstone \u0026amp; Jeanes plaque \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1850 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 65\" diameter x 29 3\/4\" high\u003cbr\u003e 93\" diameter when fully expanded \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41347063742599,"sku":"31-2887","price":288500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-2887_1_6f21811f-e85b-4f39-875d-b9d38de1ffd9.png?v=1780144142"},{"product_id":"victorian-intaglio-pendant-with-hidden-compartment","title":"Victorian Intaglio Pendant With Hidden Compartment","description":"This remarkable Victorian pendant is full of surprises. On the front, an intaglio image of a winged Cupid holding his bow and arrow aloft is etched into blue hardstone and surrounded by warm 21K yellow gold. The pendant's shape is reminiscent of an urn or vase, complete with two curved handles. The back of the pendant features the word \"Salve\" in relief, and a hinge behind one of the handles opens to reveal a hidden compartment set into the back of the intaglio. In addition to being a beautiful piece, this Victorian pendant exudes elegance and mystery. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 3 2\/5\" length","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238789881991,"sku":"31-4452","price":45000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-4452_1.png?v=1717923697"},{"product_id":"complex-italian-baroque-safe","title":"Complex Italian Baroque Safe","description":"Italian Hobnail Safe\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1630 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This rare Italian Baroque safe is crafted from reinforced wrought iron and is designed to be not only indestructible but also impenetrable without the proper keys and expertise. Intended to secure one's most precious valuables, the fascinating double-door structure is enveloped in thick iron strapwork that surrounds its massive frame. Few hobnail safes of this quality, complexity and age exist today, making this example incredibly rare and important. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The defining feature of large Baroque safes of this caliber is a complicated locking mechanism, and this example is fitted with an exceptionally well-engineered five-way locking system. As an added security measure, one must know the precise way in which to manipulate not one, but five unique iron keys, all of which have hidden keyholes that can only be revealed with the help of the accompanying lock pick. This safe's keys are of particular interest, with tips crafted in charming shapes that evoke playing card suits. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Once inside, the safe provides ample storage for one's money and other valuables. It was most likely used by merchants and business owners of the period in lieu of banks, and its five unique keys would have required each business partner to be present to open the safe, thus keeping all parties honest.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 76\" high x 45\" wide x 23\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43704603377799,"sku":"31-5379","price":128500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-5379_1_42ac194f-97f9-40ce-93ee-a898d3ace8c5.png?v=1769786480"},{"product_id":"palais-royale-mother-of-pearl-vinaigrette","title":"Palais Royale Mother of Pearl Vinaigrette","description":"This delightful gold and mother of pearl vinaigrette, created by an esteemed artisan of the Palais Royale, is ripe with 19th-century charm. Emblazoned with the initials \"E.L\" for its original owner, the book-shaped vinaigrette almost certainly belonged to a high-class reader. The combination of mother of pearl and gold was exceptionally rare for this era, adding further appeal to this uniquely beautiful item. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Gentlemen and ladies utilized vinaigrettes to avoid the pungent smells of 18th- and 19th-century city streets. After placing perfume-soaked materials inside the vessel, wearers would simply lift the vinaigrette to their nose to smell more appealing aromas. With the scented agents held in place by a pierced lid, exquisitely ornate vinaigrettes such as this book-shaped beauty worked to help neutralize the scents of burgeoning city life. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 1\/2\" high by 1 3\/8\" wide by 7\/8\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43874399289479,"sku":"31-6911","price":3950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-6911_1_7b3d75eb-d204-4dc7-9936-256185f40aa5.png?v=1772353536"},{"product_id":"british-tortoiseshell-necessaire","title":"British Tortoiseshell Necessaire","description":"This English \u003cem\u003enécessaire de voyage\u003c\/em\u003e, or vanity case, is as much an item of luxury as it is of necessity. Formed of ebonized tortoiseshell, the gilt interior, lined with rich blue velvet, contains an impressive array of personal accouterments, all perfectly fitted in their own compartments. Comprised of multiple levels in a sumptuous presentation, the stunning set is impeccably suited for carrying everything an affluent Victorian would have needed while traveling. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Travel became a key pastime for the affluent beginning in the 18th century. Young gentlemen and women of high social standing often traveled throughout the Continent on an extended, educational tour known as their Grand Tour. These lengthy journeys required a convenient means of transporting the personal belongings, or necessities, of daily life. Often constructed of luxurious materials such as silver, gold, mother of pearl, crystal, fine woods and leathers, these \u003cem\u003enécessaires de voyage\u003c\/em\u003e became highly personalized symbols of wealth and taste, carrying everything from toiletries and jewelry to sewing and writing instruments. To find one of such extraordinary craftsmanship and quality is exceptionally rare. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 7 1\/4\" high x 12\" wide x 9\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873443709063,"sku":"30-9102","price":24500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-9102_1.png?v=1770665931"},{"product_id":"french-limoges-enamel-box","title":"French Limoges Enamel Box","description":"This delightful porcelain and enamel box perfectly exemplifies the esteemed French Limoges tradition. It features a meticulously hand-applied pink and blue floral scene against a brown background. The lid is adorned with gold paint and showcases a finely detailed duck, highlighting the magnificent artisanal skill of its 19th-century French artisans. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e French Limoges enamel is distinguished in the world of decorative arts. Originating from the Limoges region in France, renowned since the Middle Ages for its enamels, this art form reached its zenith in the 19th century. The process involves fusing colored glass with metal, creating vibrant, enduring colors that resist fading. This technique allows for exquisite detail and depth, characteristics that are prominently displayed in this treasure. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 2 1\/4” wide x 1 1\/2“ deep x 1 3\/8“ high ","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43049848406151,"sku":"31-8410","price":2150.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8410_1_4aea0a26-9ba8-42a5-8d51-3dfb4eb22849.png?v=1755293110"},{"product_id":"plique-a-jour-enamel-and-glass-box","title":"Plique-à-jour Enamel and Glass Box","description":"Crafted entirely with an exceptionally detailed enamel technique known as plique-à-jour, this French box is a luxurious objet d'art. Exhibiting a subtle translucence like that of stained glass, a floral border surrounds a delightful bouquet. Not to be outdone by its lid, the glass box also features a marvelous cut glass pattern to match its ornate top. Both geometric and organic, this treasure is a quintessential and luxurious example of Art Nouveau craftsmanship at its finest. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Plique-à-jour achieved great popularity during the Art Nouveau period and was utilized by master jewelers throughout Europe and the United States, including artisans employed by Fabergé to Tiffany Studios. The technique is similar to cloisonné in which viscous enamels are applied in cells. In plique-à-jour, however, there is no backing to the cell, so light can transmit through the translucent enamel, giving the finished piece an exceptional radiance. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1890 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 1 3\/8\" high x 2\" diameter","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44568997888135,"sku":"31-8402","price":12850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8402_1_f138ebf1-4dbb-4733-9ac0-2d89cce9c6d6.png?v=1778116917"},{"product_id":"japanese-lacquer-box","title":"Japanese Lacquer Box","description":"This exquisite Meiji-period lacquer document box known as a \u003cem\u003eryoshibako\u003c\/em\u003e showcases the meticulous artistry of \u003cem\u003emaki-e,\u003c\/em\u003e a technique of raised lacquer decoration. Adorned with gold and vibrant hues, it features emblems representing the four esteemed classes of Edo society: samurai and warriors, farmers, craftsmen and merchants. Each class is symbolized through intricately rendered designs, including a bow on a stand for the warriors, a basket of leaves for the farmers, calligraphy tools for the craftsmen and a set of scales and abacus for the merchants. The box's exterior is a sophisticated black ground, achieved through \u003cem\u003eshibonuri,\u003c\/em\u003e a technique mimicking a woven texture. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The creation of a lacquer box such as this would have been an incredibly time-consuming process; the art form is considered among the most labor-intensive in the world and requires an exceptional level of finesse. Intricately detailed lacquer boxes such as this reveal the mastery of their maker and the storied tradition of Japanese craftsmanship. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1870 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 7 1\/4“ high x 17 3\/4” wide x 13 3\/4“ deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43874909323399,"sku":"31-8317","price":39850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8317_1.png?v=1772356529"},{"product_id":"royal-vienna-porcelain-box-by-franz-wagner","title":"Royal Vienna Porcelain Box by Franz Wagner","description":"Crafted by the esteemed artist Franz Wagner, this gilt bronze box with a hand-painted porcelain plaque perfectly embodies the illustrious Vienna Porcelain Manufactory's legacy. Wagner transforms the box's surface into a captivating miniature portrait of a woman with luminescent skin, a vibrant complexion, rich auburn hair and a striking red cap. Embellished with gilded foliate motifs and encased in a velvet-lined interior, this piece encapsulates the opulent aesthetic and exacting craftsmanship synonymous with the Royal Vienna Porcelain Manufactory. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 1 1\/2“ high x 3 3\/4” diameter (3.18 x 9.53 cm)","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43874924560519,"sku":"31-8412","price":2950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8412_1.png?v=1772356781"},{"product_id":"bone-needle-box-with-wedgwood-placard","title":"Bone Needle Box with Wedgwood Placard","description":"This exquisite bone needle case, adorned with a Wedgwood plaque, is a quintessential example of British neoclassical elegance from the 19th century. Crafted for the discerning Victorian elite, this needle case was an indispensable accessory for travelers embarking on the Grand Tour. The needle case features a white exterior complemented by a delicately dotted border, highlighted with touches of gold paint. The central Wedgwood plaque is a focal point, showcasing a classical mythological scene rendered in white relief against a striking green background, framed by foliate leaves in a blue border. The interior, lined with blue velvet and yellow piping, not only adds a sumptuous visual contrast but also ensures the safekeeping of needles, blending utility with opulence. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 19th Century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 1\/2“ high x 3 3\/4” wide x 1 3\/8“ deep (1.27 x 9.53 x 3.49 cm)","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41790365565063,"sku":"31-8415","price":1885.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8415_1_df9307f1-8db6-4873-9662-cb2e3642df09.png?v=1730881275"},{"product_id":"swiss-black-forest-musical-chair","title":"Swiss Black Forest Musical Chair","description":"This exceptional Swiss Black Forest chair offers a delightful surprise—a music box hidden inside will activate when the chair is sat upon. A remarkable example of the intricate craftsmanship and artistic innovation characteristic of late 19th-century Brienz, Switzerland, this chair is skilfully carved from walnut. The chair showcases detailed inlaid cartouches on both the seat and seatback, each depicting an alpine chamois amid a backdrop of meticulously carved edelweiss and foliage. A testament to the fusion of functionality and artistry, the chair conceals a Swiss cylinder musical mechanism within its seat, designed to serenade its occupant when seated. This unique feature, coupled with the chair's excellent condition and operational music box, make it as impressive as it is delightful.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e End of 19th Century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 37 1\/2“ high x 18 1\/2” wide x 25“ deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239281696903,"sku":"31-8768","price":9850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8768_1.png?v=1712736418"},{"product_id":"black-forest-music-box-chair","title":"Black Forest Music Box Chair","description":"A music box hidden inside this beautifully carved Swiss chair will activate when the chair is sat upon. A remarkable example of the intricate craftsmanship and artistic innovation characteristic of late 19th-century Brienz, Switzerland, this chair is skillfully carved from walnut. The chair showcases detailed inlaid cartouches on both the seat and seatback, each depicting an alpine chamois amid a backdrop of meticulously carved foliage. A functional work of art, the chair conceals a Swiss cylinder musical mechanism within its seat, designed to serenade its occupant when seated. As impressive as it is delightful, this chair is a perfect example of Black Forest craftsmanship at its finest.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e End of 19th Century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 36“ high x 17” wide x 14 1\/2“ deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239281598599,"sku":"31-8767","price":9850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8767_1_53e82fec-53da-4494-8a3e-c599920fc547.png?v=1712736422"},{"product_id":"chippendale-style-metamorphic-library-chair","title":"Chippendale-Style Metamorphic Library Chair","description":"This unique Chippendale-style metamorphic chair seamlessly transforms into library steps. Crafted from rich, dark mahogany and featuring exquisite elephant-patterned upholstery, this piece evokes the grandeur associated with campaign furniture. The intricately carved splat back and finely detailed craftsmanship epitomize the superior carving and innovative design for which Chippendale is renowned. With graceful precision, the chair unfolds to reveal functional library steps, allowing a smooth transition from the comfort of reading to the convenience of selecting your next book. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 37\" high x 22 1\/2\" wide x 22 1\/2\" deep\u003cbr\u003e When open: 26 1\/2\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44037370871943,"sku":"31-9772","price":9850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-9772_1.png?v=1774965341"},{"product_id":"enamel-and-diamond-scarab-ring-watch","title":"Enamel and Diamond Scarab Ring Watch","description":"Cleverly disguised as an elegant jeweled scarab, this rare Egyptian Revival-style platinum and 18K yellow gold ring conceals a delightful secret within its artistic form. The striking rust-red enamel body is adorned with 23 high-quality single cut diamonds and one round brilliant cut diamond of G-I color and VS1-SI1 clarity, totaling 0.50 carat, and accented by two small bead-shaped pink gems. A gentle touch reveals the scarab's wings can splay apart to unveil a tiny watch hidden inside, with the ring shank itself cleverly integrated as the crown for the mechanism. This ingenious marriage of jewelry and mechanics perfectly exemplifies the sophistication and whimsical design aesthetic of the mid-20th century. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1950","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44263428653191,"sku":"32-0928","price":22500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-0928_1_edb380c1-e908-4ee2-8e29-2b0684f3cb7a.png?v=1784316994"},{"product_id":"18th-century-french-master-s-lock","title":"18th-Century French Master’s Lock","description":"French Master’s Lock\u003cbr\u003e 18th Century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Ingeniously crafted with a hidden mechanism, this 18th-century French lock, known as a \u003cem\u003eserrure de maîtrise\u003c\/em\u003e, or master’s lock, was likely used by safemakers to demonstrate their locking systems to discerning clients. Before commissioning a costly safe, buyers could inspect such examples to evaluate the mechanism’s complexity, security and craftsmanship. This example could also be installed within a door or gate. These locks are exceedingly rare, as a single master model often served as the inspiration for dozens of production safes. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This particular example is especially remarkable. The mechanism includes a concealed keyhole and comes complete with its original key, which is as artful as it is functional, with no detail left unembellished. The lock’s construction reveals the exceptional ingenuity of French locksmiths, with exquisitely detailed scrollwork and a knightly figure bearing a cross adorning the surface. Both visually arresting and mechanically sophisticated, this piece is a testament to the elegance and security that defined 18th-century French ironwork. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Mechanism: 6 3\/8\" high x 3 3\/8\" wide x 2 3\/8\" deep\u003cbr\u003e On base: 10 1\/4\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44555602362503,"sku":"32-1000","price":14850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1000_1_db71b0a8-5dac-42f2-859c-54cbfd76e716.png?v=1777677780"},{"product_id":"french-18th-century-masters-lock","title":"French 18th-Century Master's Lock","description":"French Master’s Lock\u003cbr\u003e 18th Century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Ingeniously crafted with a hidden mechanism, this 18th-century French lock known as a \u003cem\u003eserrure de maîtrise\u003c\/em\u003e, or master’s lock, was likely used by safemakers to demonstrate the complexity and reliability of their locking systems to discerning clients. Before commissioning an expensive safe, buyers could examine these intricate models to assess their security and craftsmanship. This example, crafted of rolled, cut and engraved wrought iron, could also be installed in a door or gate. Such locks are exceedingly rare, as a single master design often served as the prototype for dozens of production safes. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This impressive work includes an artfully crafted key that operates dual deadbolts and a striker on one side, with an additional deadbolt on the reverse, showcasing the exceptional versatility and strength of its design. The mechanism is fully visible in action, offering a rare window into the technical brilliance of 18th-century French locksmithing. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 11\" high x 15\" wide x 7\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43051898142855,"sku":"32-1001","price":14850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1001_1_5ccf9566-843e-41a3-994d-34b870c999d9.png?v=1755365089"},{"product_id":"swiss-bird-box","title":"Swiss Bird Box","description":"Swiss Bird Box\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1880 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Mechanical wonder meets refined artistry in this exquisite singing bird box, a captivating example of late 19th-century Swiss craftsmanship. The case, fashioned from richly mottled tortoiseshell, opens to reveal a brightly feathered automaton bird that comes to life in a flurry of motion. Its beak, wings and body move gracefully in concert with the sweet, warbling song produced by the internal barrel-wound mechanism. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The gilt brass lid, delicately engraved with floral motifs and a pair of songbirds, reflects the artistry and romanticism that define the best examples of the genre. Mechanical singing bird boxes first appeared in the 1780s, created for royalty and Europe’s elite. These ingenious objects remain among the most enchanting symbols of luxury and mechanical artistry. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 1 1\/2\" high x 3 7\/8\" wide x 2 3\/4\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44552780218503,"sku":"32-1790","price":24500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1790_1.png?v=1781637795"},{"product_id":"italian-hobnail-safe","title":"Italian Hobnail Safe","description":"Hobnail Floor Safe\u003cbr\u003e Italian\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1820 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This rare and monumental Italian safe, circa 1820, is constructed from reinforced wrought iron, rendering it virtually indestructible. Designed to be impenetrable without the proper keys and expertise, it served as a secure repository for safeguarding one’s most valuable possessions. A hallmark of Italian safes of this caliber is their intricate locking mechanisms, and this exceptional example features a masterfully engineered system. To unlock it, one would need not only four distinct iron keys—each corresponding to a concealed keyhole—but also a specialized lock pick. Known as a \"partner safe,\" this design required the cooperation of multiple keyholders, often business partners, to open the safe, providing an extraordinary level of security. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e In addition to its measured, architectural form, the safe displays a refined gilt design across the front that underscores its ceremonial character. The interior is equally engaging. Opening the door reveals a locked lower chest that remains entirely original, complemented by a series of upper wooden drawers preserved in remarkable condition. These drawers retain their period inscriptions, which function as practical labels identifying materials related to purchases, documents and goods associated with Biella in northern Italy. Each inscription clarifies the nature of the contents once stored within and reflects the safe’s connection to Biella, a city in the Piedmont region situated at the foothills of the Alps. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Crafted to protect against both theft and fire, safes of this complexity and scale were frequently used by merchants in lieu of banks, making them essential tools for safeguarding wealth during the period. Few hobnail safes of this extraordinary size, craftsmanship, and sophistication have survived to the present day, making this example an exceptionally rare and significant artifact. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 43 3\/8\" high x 30 7\/8\" wide x 17 1\/2\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43541227864199,"sku":"32-1376","price":124500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1376_1_30b6b184-bd09-4a2c-b8ec-7a9735ed592e.png?v=1781212876"},{"product_id":"edwardian-mahogany-surprise-drinks-table","title":"Edwardian Mahogany Surprise Drinks Table","description":"Lawyer’s Coffin, Surprise Drinks Cabinet with Complete Cut-Glass Service\u003cbr\u003e Maple \u0026amp; Co.\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1900 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This exceptional Edwardian surprise drinks cabinet was created by Maple \u0026amp; Co. of London, one of the foremost furnishing houses of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Conceived in the form of a lawyer’s coffin, the cabinet opens to reveal an elaborate cut-glass entertaining suite. Rare both for its completeness and for its ingenious mechanical presentation, this example reflects the refinement and theatricality that made Maple \u0026amp; Co. a favorite among British royalty. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The cabinet’s exterior is crafted from richly figured timber, decorated with carved foliate ornament and supported on cabriole legs. Inside, a fitted interior holds the cut-glass service in precision-carved recesses, each vessel displaying deeply cut starbursts, faceted walls, and proportioned silhouettes typical of high-grade Edwardian glasswork. The ingenious design also includes a tantalus, which secures the decanters from unwanted hands. When the hinged panels open outward, the entire tableau is revealed at once, creating a dramatic transformation from carved furnishing to fully appointed drinks station. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Founded in 1841 on London’s Tottenham Court Road, Maple \u0026amp; Co. became one of Britain’s most prominent manufacturers of furniture and interior fittings. By the late Victorian period, the firm had secured a global clientele and held the appointment of Upholsterers by Special Appointment to Queen Victoria. Their work furnished royal residences across Europe and the wider empire, admired for its craftsmanship, design sophistication and inventive forms. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Cabinet Open: 37 5\/8” high x 61 1\/2“ wide x 32 5\/8” deep\u003cbr\u003e Closed: 31 3\/8“ wide x 32 3\/4” deep\u003cbr\u003e Large cups: 5 1\/4” high x 3 1\/4” diameter\u003cbr\u003e Medium cups: 4 1\/4” high x 2 3\/4” diameter\u003cbr\u003e Small cups: 3 1\/2” high x 2 1\/2” diameter\u003cbr\u003e Shot glasses: 1 7\/8“ high x 1 3\/8” diameter\u003cbr\u003e Bowl: 1 7\/8” high x 4 5\/8” diameter","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44010738090119,"sku":"32-1169","price":44500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1169_1.png?v=1784924933"},{"product_id":"18th-century-german-strongbox","title":"18th-Century German Strongbox","description":"German Strongbox\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1750 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This rare German strongbox stands as an exceptional testament to 18th-century ingenuity, uniting advanced security with refined ornamentation. Constructed from formidable wrought iron, the chest is adorned with scrolling and foliate decorations along with lion and crown motifs that underscore its commanding presence. A masterfully concealed keyhole lies hidden beneath the lion on the lid, revealed only with a discreet pick, while a false keyhole misdirects the untrained eye. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Designed for both beauty and impenetrability, the strongbox opens to display its complex internal mechanism. The underside of the lid reveals this intricate system, an elegant mechanical marvel that once safeguarded a ship’s most valuable possessions. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Often referred to as an “Armada chest,” this type of strongbox was originally produced in southern Germany, particularly in Nuremberg. Though long misattributed as Spanish due to their association with maritime trade, these chests were typically bolted to a ship’s deck or stored in a secure cabin to protect gold, jewels and vital documents during travel. They embody the era’s heightened demand for portable yet highly secure storage during a time of expanding global commerce. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e On base: 25 1\/2\" high x 28 1\/2\" wide x 21\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44568167809159,"sku":"32-1378","price":64500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1378_1_d35cb680-6657-4cc1-a5c4-9b9ca02f64ba.png?v=1778095306"},{"product_id":"italian-tabletop-safe","title":"Italian Tabletop Safe","description":"Italian Tabletop Safe\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1840 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This remarkable 19th-century Italian tabletop safe represents the pinnacle of security craftsmanship and decorative metalwork. Constructed of robust iron and adorned with intricate metalwork decorations, this exceptional strongbox provided superior protection for valuable documents and precious items. Its most impressive feature is the sophisticated dual-lock and pick mechanism requiring sequential activation. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The safe presents a formidable façade of hand-wrought iron, embellished with numerous raised studs arranged in systematic rows along its borders. The central panel showcases an elegant face surrounded by geometric patterns and symmetrical ironwork. Four brass escutcheons accent the corners, providing both decorative contrast and reinforcement. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Between the 14th and 19th centuries, such portable safes gained prominence among Italian merchants and aristocrats who required secure storage without the bulk of floor models. The dual-lock configuration suggests this example functioned as a \"partners' safe,\" necessitating two key holders for access—a common practice for business associates sharing financial responsibilities. Beyond theft protection, these ingeniously designed strongboxes also offered valuable fire protection for important documents, making them essential multi-purpose security devices for the 19th century's merchant class. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 24 5\/8” high x 28 1\/4” wide x 12 1\/8” deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43926817341575,"sku":"32-1377","price":49850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1377_1.png?v=1780145911"},{"product_id":"louis-xv-gold-box","title":"Louis XV Gold Box","description":"Louis XV–Period Gold Snuff Box\u003cbr\u003e Crafted 1750–1756 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This rare gold snuff box was created during the height of the Louis XV period, an era celebrated for the refinement of Rococo decorative arts. Gold snuff boxes from this reign are exceptionally scarce, particularly examples of this caliber and size, where precious material and sophisticated workmanship are united in perfect harmony. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The elegant oval form is richly chased with radiating sunburst guilloché grounds, framed by delicately scrolling borders. Both the lid and body are decorated with finely modeled floral sprays executed in \u003cem\u003een quatre couleurs\u003c\/em\u003e gold. The precision of the engraving and the subtle contrasts between the various gold tones reflect the extraordinary skill demanded by such complex ornamentation. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The box bears the Paris ox head charge mark used between 1750 and 1756, accompanied by later import marks. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 1 5\/8\" high x 3 1\/2\" wide x 2 1\/2\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43791054274695,"sku":"31-7148","price":42850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-7148_1.png?v=1781637710"},{"product_id":"william-and-mary-kingwood-veneered-and-gilt-brass-bound-strongbox","title":"William and Mary Kingwood\r\nVeneered and Gilt Brass Bound\r\nStrongbox","description":"Kingwood and Gilt Brass–Mounted Strongbox\u003cbr\u003e English, Circle of Gerrit Jensen\u003cbr\u003e Late 17th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This exceptional late 17th-century strongbox exemplifies the highest level of luxury cabinetmaking in Northern Europe during the Restoration and William \u0026amp; Mary periods. Crafted in richly figured kingwood and walnut and mounted with elaborate gilt brass strapwork, the box reflects the elite tradition of secure storage furniture produced for aristocratic and courtly interiors. Closely related to documented examples by Gerrit Jensen, one of the most celebrated cabinetmakers of the era, it belongs to a rare group of strongboxes made for England’s most important houses. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The box is distinguished by its finely book-matched kingwood veneers, whose dramatic grain is framed and reinforced by bold gilt brass mounts terminating in fleur-de-lis motifs. The hinged lid opens to a plain interior, while a hinged fall-front panel reveals two concealed long drawers designed for safeguarding valuables and documents. Gerrit Jensen supplied luxury furniture to some of England’s most significant estates, including Ham House and Nostell Priory, and works attributed to his circle are preserved in leading institutional collections. Comparable strongboxes are held by the Victoria and Albert Museum. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 7 1\/2“ high x 12 wide x 7 1\/2” deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43888665133191,"sku":"32-1924","price":19850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1924_1_a0f1630b-98ba-4ff4-91ca-17588587c847.png?v=1772376041"},{"product_id":"austro-hungarian-jeweled-silver-singing-bird-box","title":"Austro-Hungarian Jeweled Silver Singing Bird Box","description":"Singing Bird Box\u003cbr\u003e Hallmarked Pest, 1872–1922 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This exceptional silver singing bird box unites ingenious automaton engineering with richly detailed enameling. Conceived as a luxury object, this Austria-Hungary masterpiece delights both the eye and ear, featuring a brilliantly crafted bird that sings when activated. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The box is finely executed in 800 silver, produced in the town of Pest between 1872 and 1922. Its surface is adorned with intricate filigree work and enamel detailing, accented with gemstones that enhance the visual splendor. The delicate movement of the bird and the precise articulation of its plumage showcase the remarkable technical expertise of its maker. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Singing bird boxes first appeared in Europe during the 1780s, commissioned by royalty and elite patrons as marvels of both science and art. These objects remained highly coveted, produced only by workshops capable of mastering the intricate mechanics required to animate a lifelike bird. This box represents the highest level of that tradition, combining technical ingenuity with decorative brilliance to create a treasure of European craftsmanship. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Stamped with maker’s mark “WM” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 1 3\/4\" high x 4\" wide x 2 3\/4\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44568999624839,"sku":"32-2515","price":19850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2515_1_2e712f7b-1ed6-4849-b6ab-d212ad40d63a.png?v=1778117019"},{"product_id":"ormolu-and-champleve-enamel-singing-bird-box","title":"Ormolu and Champlevé Enamel Singing Bird Box","description":"Champlevé Enameled Bronze Singing Bird Box\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1880 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Striking in both form and function, this champlevé enameled bronze singing bird box reflects a refined blend of decorative artistry and mechanical ingenuity. The lid opens to reveal a delicate feathered bird that springs to life, fluttering its wings, turning in place and opening its beak in song. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The box’s surface is adorned with vibrant enamelwork, with cartouches of stylized flowers and scrolling foliage that animate the gilding with color and depth. Raised on four feet, the form possesses a sculptural presence, its intricate detailing reflecting the enduring influence of historic European ornament. The box was likely made in France. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Originating in the late 18th century, mechanical singing bird boxes were among the most enchanting luxuries produced for European elites. Often referred to as \u003cem\u003etabatières\u003c\/em\u003e, these objects combined the elegance of snuff boxes with ingenious internal mechanisms. By the late 19th century, they remained coveted for their craftsmanship and charm, continuing a tradition that celebrates both artistry and innovation. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 3 3\/8\" high x 4 5\/8\" wide x 3 1\/4\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44552781463687,"sku":"32-2512","price":24500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2512_1_ce0ce38a-1dc6-4295-a274-ff79b9f664a4.png?v=1777569699"},{"product_id":"jeweled-singing-bird-box-1","title":"Jeweled Singing Bird Box","description":"Jeweled Singing Bird Box\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1880 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This exquisite enamel and jewel-mounted singing bird box is a captivating example of mechanical artistry. It reflects the height of European luxury automata tradition, where engineering precision and ornamental splendor converge. With the press of a mechanism, the concealed bird comes to life in a performance of song and dance. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The finely constructed filigreed brass case is richly adorned with gems and polychrome enamel floral motifs. The compact box is animated by a hidden mechanism that reveals a brilliantly colored bird, which emerges to sing while flapping its wings, turning its body and moving rhythmically from side to side. Its small front drawer holds the winding key. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Mechanical singing bird boxes such as this evolved from the European tradition of luxury automata, reaching particular prominence from the late 18th century onward. Often referred to as \u003cem\u003etabatières\u003c\/em\u003e due to their resemblance to ornate snuff boxes, these creations were favored by aristocratic patrons for their novelty and technical sophistication. Marked with the maker’s mark “KT,” this example continues that lineage of fine mechanical craftsmanship, representing the enduring fascination with objects that blur the boundaries between art, science and illusion. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 2 1\/4\" high x 4 1\/4\" wide x 3 1\/8\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44548476928135,"sku":"32-2514","price":22500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2514_1_44f0f4a6-2820-4523-8fe8-cb5bcd59408b.png?v=1777552843"},{"product_id":"breguet-singing-bird-box","title":"Breguet Singing Bird Box","description":"Breguet Singing Bird Box\u003cbr\u003e Handcrafted 1945 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This exquisite gilded brass singing bird box was crafted and retailed by the celebrated watchmaker Breguet. It was almost certainly specially ordered and one of only two singing bird automata the famed firm ever completed. It is fitted with an ingenious automaton movement by Alfred Bontems. Combining Breguet’s legacy of precision with Bontems’ mastery of lifelike mechanical birds, it represents an exceptional union of horological innovation and decorative artistry. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The elegant case is engine-turned with intricate geometric motifs, while the underside bears the winding aperture and Breguet signature. When the case is opened, a delicate feathered bird automatically emerges and begins to sing, turning from side to side while moving its beak, wings and tail in perfect rhythm. Remarkably, the bird retreats the moment the case is closed, even if its song has not yet ended. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e To realize this extraordinary creation, Breguet turned to master automaton maker Alfred Bontems. Renowned for the naturalism of his mechanisms and the clarity of their songs, Bontems transformed ingenious objects into captivating works of mechanical art. This rare example is further distinguished by its provenance noted by the Breguet archives and its inclusion in \u003cem\u003eFlights of Fancy\u003c\/em\u003e, Christian Bailly’s authoritative study of singing bird automata. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Breguet, Paris\u003cbr\u003e Sold to Mr. Ducos\u003cbr\u003e Private collection, Belgium\/New York\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Literature:\u003cbr\u003e Christian Bailly, \u003cem\u003eFlights of Fancy: Mechanical Singing Birds\u003c\/em\u003e, p. 316, illustrated","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45317161877639,"sku":"32-2455","price":98500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2455_1.png?v=1784816073"}],"url":"https:\/\/rauantiques.com\/collections\/07-26-hidden-treasures.oembed?page=2","provider":"M.S. Rau","version":"1.0","type":"link"}