{"title":"6.26 Sound of Music","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"swiss-gold-and-enamel-musical-vinaigrette","title":"Swiss Gold and Enamel Musical Vinaigrette","description":"A musical movement distinguishes this wonderful early 19th-century gold vinaigrette box. The vessel is covered in delicate engraving highlighted by blue and white champlevé enamel detailed in a fine floral motif. The button on the front of the box controls the music, and the accompanying original key winds the mechanism. 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 3\/8\" high \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873577468039,"sku":"30-9264","price":22500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-9264_1_473f7eb0-7c8f-4f52-bd96-810bd2cd0bda.png?v=1770666830"},{"product_id":"nicole-freres-cylinder-music-box","title":"Nicole Frères Cylinder Music Box","description":"Nicole Frères cylinder music boxes are considered among the finest ever made, and this example is no exception. Known as a “triple signed” box, the Nicole Frères mark is found on the song card, mechanism, and comb. Encased in finely inlaid rosewood, the 8-air mechanism features a cylinder with very close-set teeth, an advancement which greatly increases the quality and complexity of the music. The set of six bells charmingly held aloft by a gymnast, drum, and castanets contribute a layer of depth and richness for which Nicole Frères is celebrated. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1880 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 26 1\/2” wide x 9 5\/8\" deep x 21” high \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41540601380999,"sku":"30-7483","price":24500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-7483_1_ffa14828-245e-4511-bb32-8ed64ca91ecc.png?v=1717920737"},{"product_id":"swiss-station-cylinder-music-box","title":"Swiss Station Cylinder Music Box","description":"Tiny dancers twirl to the melodious tunes produced by this Swiss station cylinder music box. The cylinder is joined by a drum and bells that give richness and depth to the wonderful music the box creates. Music boxes were at the height of fashion in the late 19th century and served as a status symbol for the European gentry. Switzerland was the birthplace of cylinder music boxes and home to the great majority of the most renowned manufacturers. This example, in its finely crafted English walnut case, boasts two combs, allowing the box to play in harmony for a richer, more complex song. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This particular style, commonly referred to as a “station” or “showcase” box, was used to entertain guests in hotel lobbies, train stations and other similar public places, and as such would have been coin-operated. This example, however, does not accept coins. This, combined with its overall quality, complexity and beauty, indicates it was made for a private household of significant means. Today, these ingenious musical masterpieces are highly sought-after by collectors of musical automata. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1890 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 33 1\/8\" wide x 16 7\/8\" deep x 31 1\/2\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41789880107143,"sku":"30-7460","price":29850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-7460_1_10d6fbc6-8fa7-4aba-8d4b-cc47c3727b0f.png?v=1726275323"},{"product_id":"interchangeable-cylinder-music-box-by-paillard","title":"Interchangeable Cylinder Music Box by Paillard","description":"This rare Swiss interchangeable cylinder music box was crafted by the St. Croix firm of Paillard, Vaucher \u0026amp; Fils. A work of mechanical artistry, the highly collectible box comes with a remarkable 14 cylinders, each of which plays six tunes. In total, a selection of 84 unique songs by composers such as Georges Bizet and Johann Strauss, as well as popular Scottish, Irish and English ballads such as \"Auld Robin Gray\" and \"The Sea is England's Glory,\" are included on the interchangeable cylinders. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The fully operational movement is set in motion by moving the small lever on the right from \"STOP\" to \"PLAY.\" The lever above allows one to repeat a song or play the next on the cylinder, while the current song is indicated on a dial numbered one through six in the movement. A tune card on the inside lid lists all 84 musical options, and the cylinders not in use are stored in two drawers that extend from each side, as well as two additional cylinder boxes that accompany the piece. Inside and out, the craftsmanship of this machine is first class.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Marked \"P.V.F. Ste Croix (Suisse) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1890  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Music Box: 8 3\/4” high x 20 1\/4\" wide x 11 1\/4\" deep Cylinder Boxes: 4 1\/4\" high x 12 1\/2\" wide x 9\" deep  \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41347044409479,"sku":"30-7475","price":19850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-7475_1.png?v=1715329652"},{"product_id":"piano-forte-cylinder-music-box","title":"Piano-Forte Cylinder Music Box","description":"This excellent Swiss piano-forte cylinder music box by celebrated makers Ducommun Girod produces music with exquisite sound quality. The term \"piano-forte\" translates to \"soft and loud\" from Italian, and it is aptly used to express the superior tonal qualities of this exceptional automatic music player. This particular model is housed in a handsome rosewood case featuring intricate inlays and marquetry work in a lush musical motif. Cylinder music boxes that possess the ability to create superb, crisp sounds such as this are highly sought after by collectors. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Stamped \"Ducommun Girod\" \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1850 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 19 1\/2\" wide x 7 1\/4\" deep x 5\" high ","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238206120071,"sku":"30-7476","price":9850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-7476_1.png?v=1712605014"},{"product_id":"cylinder-music-box-by-le-coultre-freres","title":"Cylinder Music Box by Le Coultre Freres","description":"This outstanding Swiss cylinder music box was crafted by the prestigious firm of Le Coultre Freres of Geneva. The highly intricate movement plays a selection of twelve popular tunes with fine and clear sound, including the aria \"Non più mesta\" from La Cenerentola and \"Valzer e Duetto: Che è ciò\" from La Traviata. Wound by a lever on the left side, the machine is equipped with a start\/stop switch and a change\/repeat switch allowing the user to customize the duration of play.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Stamped with maker's mark on the comb \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1850 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 6 3\/4\" high x 20\" wide x 9 1\/8\" deep \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41347044704391,"sku":"30-7478","price":14850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-7478_1.png?v=1715329651"},{"product_id":"regina-upright-music-box","title":"Regina Upright Music Box","description":"An extraordinary and rare coin-operated Regina \u003cem\u003eSublima\u003c\/em\u003e upright music box crafted by the Regina Music Box Company, one of the most recognized music box manufacturers in the world, comes complete with 13 discs. The fine oak cabinet with a glazed glass panel and gallery, holds additional discs in a drop-down drawer at the front of the box. The sound quality of this wonderful music box is superb and the cabinet remains in excellent condition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The advent of the disc-playing musical machines in 1886 ushered in a new day for music lovers around the world. Prior to this new German invention, the only alternative to live music in the home or business was the cylinder music box. Though the sound produced by these gems was sweet, the music itself was very costly. Elaborate cylinders played a set number of airs or tunes, and once a family or business patron had tired of them, it was indeed a pricey endeavor to add cylinders to the music collection. Some cylinders cost more than most workers' entire year's wage, and the number of songs available was limited by the very nature of the complex production of the cylinders. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The disc players solved these problems. They were considerably less expensive to manufacture and much easier to produce. The musical disc players were an overnight sensation. When upper-middle-class families could enjoy these musical treasures, the music industry began to take off. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e In 1894, the Regina Music Box Company was founded by Gustav Brachhausen in Rahway, New Jersey. They quickly gained national attention and acclaim for their superb music boxes and were an overwhelming success in America. Brachhausen brought with him years of experience and talents honed at the Polyphon Factory in Germany where he was in charge for years. Under his direction, the Regina Music Factory created a series of music boxes whose smooth, rich sound was unsurpassed. Even today, Regina music boxes, such as this incredible example, are considered among the very finest ever created. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1895  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 70 1\/2\" high x 33\" wide x 14 1\/2\" deep \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Discs: 20 3\/4\" inches \n Song List: The Pettigoat Dance When the Whip - P Jor - Will Sings Angels Serenade Legende Valaque Soko Moorish March Love’s Dream After the Ball Zenda Waltzes The Ghimes of Trinity Song Tell me Pretty Maiden Song Tannhauser, O’ Thou Sublime The Gondolier Song The Singing Girl “If Only You Were Mine” Flower Song I Can’t Do That Sum, Song \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41844699005063,"sku":"28-9729","price":38500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/28-9729_1_f85890e3-d418-4c78-b5c4-91f4f6f0e20d.png?v=1726255297"},{"product_id":"hupfeld-phonoliszt-violina-model-b-music-cabinet","title":"Hupfeld Phonoliszt-Violina Model B Music Cabinet","description":"This incredible Hupfeld Phonoliszt-Violina Model B music cabinet is among the rarest and most advanced automatic music players of its time. The remarkable machine, crafted by the renowned Leipzig firm of Ludwig Hupfeld, is one of the most mechanically complex music players ever made, boasting three self-playing violins accompanied by a self-playing piano. Once made to entertain patrons of upscale hotels, restaurants and cafes, these extraordinary machines have become increasingly rare, with only 63 still in existence today. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A large step above the popular mechanical piano of the day, the Phonoliszt-Violina was expensive to produce and therefore was only available to the most exclusive clientele. The necessity for its expense is evident when considering the astonishing complexity of the instrument. Three violins playing strings tuned to D, A and E are bowed by a circular 1,350-strand horsehair bow cage, while a cross-strung Rönisch pianoforte accompanies the strings. Remarkably, both the piano and the violins are dynamic, allowing for a previously unheard-of range of volume and tone. From the most delicate pianissimo to a crashing fortissimo, the unparalleled instrument has the ability to render musical pieces with all of the skill and vigor of a real musician. Over 900 music rolls were created for the Phonoliszt-Violina over the decades, of which 50 rolls are included with the present machine. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The firm of Ludwig Hupfeld was established in Leipzig in 1892, when Ludwig Hupfeld, an accomplished musician, mechanic and businessman, acquired the musical instrument manufacturers J.M. Grob \u0026amp; Co. The firm quickly rose in popularity as its mechanical instruments grew more and more complex. Products made by the firm included various piano-playing machines and orchestrions. The idea of creating an automatic violin came to Hupfeld in 1900, and by 1907, the firm displayed the \u003cem\u003eKlavier mit Streichton,\u003c\/em\u003e or piano with string tone, at the Leipzig Autumn Trade Fair. At the Brussels World’s Fair of 1910, a Phonoliszt-Violina was received with great acclaim and earned a medal, with renowned violinist Ephrem Zimbalist calling the instrument “the wonder and marvel of our time.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This Violina model is featured on the cover of \u003cem\u003eThe Violin-Playing Machines\u003c\/em\u003e, 2012, by Q. D. Bowers \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1910 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 106” high x 75” wide x 32” deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43057545904263,"sku":"29-9091","price":498500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-9091_1_788020aa-bade-48af-99b2-705a0a5f4b82.png?v=1755545090"},{"product_id":"arburo-orchestrion-organ-by-bursens-and-roels","title":"Arburo Orchestrion Organ by Bursens and Roels","description":"Once a fixture in bustling dance halls, cafés and fairgrounds throughout Belgium and the Netherlands in early to mid-20th century, this incredibly rare, early Orchestrion organ is a masterpiece of automated music. Crafted by the Arburo firm run by Arthur Bursens and Gustav Roels, this mechanical marvel is essentially an entire band set within an elegantly constructed Art Deco cabinet. No two Orchestrions were ever created alike and each was made-to-order, one at a time. Each was crafted entirely by hand, even down to the paper music rolls, and utilized actual standalone musical instruments integrated into the mechanism.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The organ operates on electricity and its sound quality is breathtaking. Instruments including a visible accordion, 168-pipe organ, triangle and drums are all controlled by one of 20 rolls included with this Orcestrion. A powerful motor provides high air pressure to operate the pipes and the vacuum, which reads the roll and controls the percussion. This allows the organ to generate the volume necessary to overcome the noise of revelers in a crowded dance hall. Today, very few examples of these musical marvels exist, especially in the exceptional working condition of this example. Such splendid musical antiques generate tremendous attention on the market, making this organ a prized acquisition for musical enthusiasts world-wide. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Founder Joseph Bursens began his career working with his father at the Mortier organ manufactory in Antwerp. He began creating his own organs in his spare time, and eventually opened his own manufactory in Hoboken in 1908. Bursens quickly became known for his impeccably crafted dance hall organs, each a masterpiece of hand-craftsmanship inside and out. In 1928, Brusens' son, Arthur, took over the business and decided to take on a partner, Gustav Roels, renaming the company ARBURO (ARthur BURsens and ROels). Just like his father before him, Arthur learned the importance of quality, and continued to make each and every organ by hand. The reinvigorated company began creating their prized Orchestrions using the more functional paper roll instead of the accordion books of earlier models. This freed space within the mechanism for incorporating more musical instruments and mechanisms, while also allowing each Orchestrion to play more tunes without interruption. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The Orchestrion was created from the 1930s through the 1960s. However, this particular example dates to Bursens and Roels very first years of Arburo production. Arburo had moved their operations to the address Bernardsche Steenweg 635 in 1930: a larger locale that allowed them to meet their high demand. The trademark plaque affixed to the Orchestrion includes Bursens previous address \"Bernardsche Steenweg, 181,\" meaning this Orchestrion was created between 1928 and 1929. Further confirming this date is the fact that the music roll is located at the center of the mechanism, while the rolls in later Arburo creations were positioned either to the left or the right. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This Arburo Orchestrion was showcased at the Arburo centennial exhibition \u003cem\u003eBursens Organs at Hoboken\u003c\/em\u003e on October 4-19, 2008 at the Castle Sorghvliet of Hoboken, Belgium. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1928-29 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 105 1\/2\" wide x 50 1\/4\" deep x 102 1\/2\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41347120791687,"sku":"29-9092","price":168500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-9092_1.png?v=1715329191"},{"product_id":"mandolin-singing-bird-automaton-music-box","title":"Mandolin Singing Bird Automaton Music Box","description":"This exceptional singing bird cylinder music box is a wonder of Austrian mechanical ingenuity. Not only does it play a selection of classical airs with remarkable tone and clarity, but its lush sound is accompanied by a colorful, singing bird automaton. Set in a beautiful inlaid case with satinwood floral and musical motifs, the music box plays six airs, listed on the inside lid, producing a pleasing and cheerful “mandolin” sound on two combs. The mechanical bird, set in a nest complete with tiny bird eggs, sings along while music box plays. His beak, wings, tail, head and body all move as he performs, as a grouping of levers between the combs controls his movements and the set of pipes produce his beautiful song. A rare improvement on the basic cylinder music box, the mandolin box achieved its melodious sound by having up to eight teeth on the comb tuned to each note, or to the tones used in the tunes played. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This type of music box was awarded a place in the International Exhibition of 1876 in Philadelphia, held by the United States Centennial Commission to celebrate the nation’s 100th birthday. The seal for this is displayed inside the lid, along with a second seal: “\u003cem\u003eWellausstellung 1875 Wien Franz. Joseph I. Kaiser Osterreich N. Konig V. Bohmen Etc. Apost. Konig Ungara\u003c\/em\u003e.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1875 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 30\" wide x 15\"deep x 14\" high \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Song List:\u003cbr\u003e 1. \u003cem\u003eLe Juif errant. Valse\u003c\/em\u003e by Burgmueller\u003cbr\u003e 2. \u003cem\u003eLe Barbier de Seville\u003c\/em\u003e by Rossini\u003cbr\u003e 3. \u003cem\u003eLa Gazza Cadra Ouverture\u003c\/em\u003e by id.\u003cbr\u003e 4. \u003cem\u003eThe Mocking Bird\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 5. \u003cem\u003eRigoletto Coro nome\u003c\/em\u003e by Verdi\u003cbr\u003e 6.\u003cem\u003e L’Ombre. Quand je monte escotte\u003c\/em\u003e by Flotow","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41347117088903,"sku":"29-1321","price":48500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-1321_1_e39619a7-c2c0-4796-af8c-f8ffa3b7cb68.png?v=1715329255"},{"product_id":"silver-gilt-musical-snuff-box-by-francois-nicole","title":"Silver-Gilt Musical Snuff Box by François Nicole","description":"This exceptional Swiss silver-gilt musical snuff box was crafted by the famed François Nicole. At first glance, the diminutive piece appears to simply be an exquisite 19th-century snuff box, with Neoclassical-style chased and engraved borders of foliage and flowering thistles. A quick wind of the key, however, reveals the complex mechanism hidden inside. The musical movement plays two airs with a fine single-piece comb of 61 teeth. The movement is in exceptional condition, complete with its original key. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Once known as \u003cem\u003ecarillons à musique\u003c\/em\u003e, musical snuff boxes were once considered status symbols amongst the wealthy elite. A step above the traditional snuff box, musical boxes helped to influence the development and popularity of all music box production in the 19th century. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Comb stamped \"F. NICOLE\" \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1820 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 3 7\/16\" wide x 2 1\/8\" deep x 1\" high \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44581308104839,"sku":"30-7899","price":27420.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-7899_1_9db172c4-8709-4137-a668-db6c12319cb5.png?v=1779132075"},{"product_id":"the-mills-double-deluxe-violano-virtuoso","title":"The Mills Double DeLuxe Violano Virtuoso ","description":"One of only a handful ever made, this\u003cem\u003e Double DeLuxe Violano Virtuoso\u003c\/em\u003e, created by the Mills Novelty Company, is an extremely rare example of American musical automata, featuring not one, but \u003cem\u003etwo\u003c\/em\u003e brilliantly tuned violins. Singled out by the U.S. government in 1909 as one of the eight greatest inventions of the decade when it was introduced at the Alaska Yukon Pacific Exposition, the Mills \u003cem\u003eDeLuxe Violano-Virtuoso\u003c\/em\u003e stands as one of the most important and incredible musical devices ever made. The “Double Mills,” as it was nicknamed, plays classical, operatic and popular music. It can play on a single or up to 15 nickels and has the ability to run for approximately an hour. It produces exceptional sound with a crisp tonal quality and melodious notes. Housed in a beautiful quarter-sawn oak case, each violin produces 64 notes and is accompanied by a 44-note piano. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e It is truly rare to find a historical musical mechanism so complete, with such remarkable sound quality and in excellent condition. This particular Violano has been updated with a digital player system that allows song selections to be made over a WiFi connection. This gives the user a choice between digital downloads or traditional paper rolls for added convenience.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Perfected and patented in 1912 by Henry K. Sandell, the \u003cem\u003eViolano-Virtuoso\u003c\/em\u003e was produced in limited quantities until 1929 and could be found in the very finest restaurants, hotels and oceanliners. In fact, the \u003cem\u003eViolano-Virtuoso\u003c\/em\u003e was one of the few American-made mechanical musical devices to be distributed worldwide to the most exclusive international clientele. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The below testimonial was sent to the Mills Company by the Governor of Idaho, aptly describing the incredible music produced by the \u003cem\u003eViolano-Virtuoso\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eDear Sir, Have just had the pleasure of listening to your wonderful Automatic Violin and Piano on exhibition at the Government Building here. This marvelous instrument certainly far surpasses anything that I have eve heard in automatic music. The tone and expression of the violin and the piano are so perfect and clear that is really hard to believe but that there is the human hand playing...\"\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Indeed, for the price of a nickel, the Mills \u003cem\u003eViolano-Virtuoso\u003c\/em\u003e delivered a wide variety of musical entertainment ranging from classical operatic arrangements to the popular tunes of the day. Using rolls of perforated paper in much the same way as a player piano, it could play music on either the violins, the piano or both, offering an unparalleled combination of sound. The violins vary from the usual in that they have no fingerboard. Instead, a small metal “finger” rises from under the string lifting it in a “V” shaped slot thus stopping off the string. The strings are bowed by four small wheels made of discs of celluloid clamped together, applying just the right amount of pressure to the strings. These are driven by a delicate variable speed controlled motor to vary the volume of sound produced. The vibrato is produced by shaking the tailpiece of the violin with a series of pneumatic pistons operated by a vacuum pump. The frame of the piano is shield shaped, supporting the bass strings in the center and the treble strings on either side, which evens the stress on the frame and assists in maintaining the piano's tuning. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Up to 15 coins could be accommodated and, depending on the number of songs on each of the music rolls, the \u003cem\u003eViolano-Virtuoso\u003c\/em\u003e could play for up to an hour. \u003cem\u003eDe Luxe Violano-Virtuoso\u003c\/em\u003e machines of this caliber and condition, retaining such a superb tonal quality, are extremely rare today. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A similar Mills Novelty Company DeLuxe Violano Virtuoso is featured in Q. David Bowers' \u003cem\u003eEncyclopedia of Automatic Musical Instruments\u003c\/em\u003e on page 520. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1920 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 49 3\/8\" wide x 34 3\/4\" deep x 68 1\/2\" high \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42260321337479,"sku":"30-5245","price":248500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-5245_1.png?v=1738728814"},{"product_id":"mermod-freres-station-cylinder-music-box","title":"Mermod Fréres Station Cylinder Music Box","description":"This exceptionally wonderful and rare automaton cylinder musical box by the Mermod Fréres firm of Sainte-Croix, Switzerland is a marvel of musical craftsmanship. Through the window, one can view a fluttering butterfly and four maidens twirling and dancing along on their “stage” to the music box’s tune.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This box’s harmony, twin-tine movement is in perfect working order. It possesses a crisp, melodious sound as it plays one of three accompanying cylinders, each with six tunes. The fascinating mechanism is also equipped with a tune selector, Jacot parachute safety and speed regulator. An ornate inlaid burl walnut cabinet is the perfect complement, featuring two fitted drawers with the capacity to hold four cylinders.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Music boxes were at the height of fashion in the late 19th century and served as a status symbol for the European gentry. Switzerland was the birthplace of cylinder music boxes and home to the great majority of the most renowned manufacturers. This particular style, commonly referred to as a “station” or “showcase” box, was used to entertain guests in hotel lobbies, train stations and other similar public places. Today, these ingenious musical masterpieces are some of the most highly sought-after by collectors. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1890 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 44” wide x 19” deep x 78” high \u003cbr\u003e Cylinder: 20\" length x 3 1\/4\" diameter \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44462483898503,"sku":"29-5620","price":128500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-5620_1_3c94cc16-480d-4d96-afc4-6b253aa52ba4.png?v=1777556275"},{"product_id":"longue-marche-cylinder-music-box","title":"Longue Marche Cylinder Music Box","description":"This outstanding \u003cem\u003eLongue Marche\u003c\/em\u003e cylinder music box is an impressive piece of mechanical artistry that produces a marvelous crisp and melodious sound. The complex movement features a twin comb \u003cem\u003eSublime Harmonie\u003c\/em\u003e arrangement, which helps to create the uniquely robust sound of these intricate machines. It plays thanks to its complicated \u003cem\u003eLongue Marche\u003c\/em\u003e spring mechanism - using four separate springs, the mechanism allows the box to play uninterrupted for over an hour on just one winding. Due to the extended playing time of each cylinder, this model is also known as a \"dinner\" box, so named because it freed the host or hostess from the bothersome task of cranking the music box during a lengthy evening meal. Today, these complicated music boxes are highly prized, particularly those in such outstanding condition.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nMetal patent tags affixed, \"United States March 1th \/ 1881\/ England Sept 16th \/ 1879 \/ Longue Marche Patented\" and \"Sublime Harmonie Patented in the United States March 25 1875 \/ in England October 26 1874\"\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCirca 1885\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n10 1\/4\" high x 32\" wide x 14\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41238194061447,"sku":"30-7462","price":28850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-7462_1.png?v=1717921498"},{"product_id":"swiss-enamel-and-gold-musical-snuff-box","title":"Swiss Enamel and Gold Musical Snuff Box","description":"This exceptional 19th-century gold box appears at first glance be an exquisite snuff box adorned with a charming Swiss enamel vista encircled by a multitude of natural pearls. A quick wind of the key, however, reveals the complex mechanism hidden inside, and the box plays a wistful tune. Once known as \u003cem\u003ecarillons à musique\u003c\/em\u003e, musical snuff boxes were once considered status symbols amongst the wealthy elite. A step above the traditional snuff box, musical boxes helped to influence the development and popularity of all music box production in the 19th century. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Inscribed under lid \"To my Mother \/ Long may the strain affection offers please \/ And every year commence with sounds like these \/ 1829\" \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1829 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 1\/2\" high x 1 5\/8\" wide x 1 3\/8\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41347113451655,"sku":"31-7150","price":44500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-7150_1_da05b60d-5012-4873-810a-7a4beb2f1805.png?v=1715329265"},{"product_id":"musical-jewelry-and-sewing-box","title":"Musical Jewelry and Sewing Box","description":"This charming musical jewelry and sewing box is a work of art inside and out. Crafted of rich wood, this chest is adorned with doré bronze details, including lion's paw feet. Inside, the interior includes a mirror and spaces for rings and pin cushions atop hidden drawers for more precious valuables. All of these compartments are perfectly fitted within the box, while the musical mechanism emits an enchanting melody from within.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 14 1\/2” wide x 10 1\/2” deep x 5 1\/2” high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43408176775303,"sku":"30-9101","price":3250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-9101_1.png?v=1762001389"},{"product_id":"automaton-clock-and-music-box-house","title":"Automaton Clock and Music Box House","description":"This artful and unique automaton clock and music box house proudly bears the signature of Geneva, a hallmark of unparalleled horological excellence. For generations, Geneva has seamlessly merged traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, setting the standard for luxury timepieces. Adorned with delicate hand-painted details, this exquisite cottage exudes provincial charm. Intricate floral motifs and ivy vines gracefully ascend its façade, drawing onlookers into this detailed masterpiece. A couple stands in the doorway, meticulously carved to exude the height of style and grace. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e In the style of the iconic cuckoo clock, a distinguished gentleman, adorned with a pipe and cane, emerges from the balcony doors to herald the passing of time. The charming cottage offers another mechanical marvel, an enclosed Swiss cylinder musical mechanism offering a selection of six enchanting melodies. Levers for changing, repeating, stopping and starting are conveniently located on the back of the house. Musical clocks most often blend only time and musical components, but to find a specimen that also includes the automaton workings as well is extraordinary. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Early 20th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 28 1\/8\" high x 26 1\/4\" wide x 15 1\/2\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43231114363015,"sku":"31-8672","price":24850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8672_1.png?v=1758656022"},{"product_id":"polyphon-autochange-disk-music-box","title":"Polyphon Autochange Disk Music Box","description":"As exceptionally scarce as it is fascinating, this autochange disk player by the Polyphon Musikwerke in Leipzig, Germany can change between six disks and play with the incredibly rare addition of bells that accompany the music. In order to hear the magnificent music, one must slide the brass indicator until it points to the desired music selection, insert a penny and the chosen song will play automatically. An extremely limited number of these automatic disk changers were created, and even fewer have survived in such outstanding condition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Standing over seven feet tall, this particular model features a magnificent walnut case with handsome burl panels on its original, matching storage cabinet. A true technical marvel for its day, Polyphon’s automatic disk changer symbolizes pure ingenuity and superlative craftsmanship. This antique player is accompanied by 12– 22-inch disks, with more available for purchase in any musical genre. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Similar Polyphon autochange disk players are pictured in both the First and Second editions of \u003cem\u003eThe Music Box Handbook\u003c\/em\u003e, by Graham Webb.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1890 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 35\" wide x 21 3\/4\" deep x 85\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41857782481031,"sku":"30-2318","price":88500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-2318_1_af48b672-d82e-4c41-8453-f94dd258da51.png?v=1726265849"},{"product_id":"elvis-guitar","title":"Elvis' Guitar","description":"Elvis Presley's Classical Guitar\u003cbr\u003e Signed \"Elvis\"\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1950s \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A rare artifact of rock and roll history, this extraordinary guitar was owned, played and signed by Elvis Presley, the artist who redefined modern music. It was later gifted to a close friend, who recounts a 1976 Las Vegas meeting in which Elvis retrieved it from his car and performed “That’s All Right” on the spot. He then presented it to his friend as a gift, signing it with his unmistakable “Elvis” autograph and describing it as a source of good luck. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Elvis was photographed playing what is almost certainly this instrument in 1958 while stationed in Germany. A richly finished 1950s classical model, it is distinguished by a warm, polished body, contrasting black trim and a bold ink signature applied directly to the soundboard. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The guitar was chosen for the cover of Sotheby’s 1995 \u003cem\u003eCollectors’ Carrousel\u003c\/em\u003e catalog, affirming its importance. Elvis Presley’s enduring influence as a performer and ability to bridge gospel, country and rhythm and blues reshaped global popular culture, making surviving instruments associated with him among the most coveted in music memorabilia. Examples with documented provenance, direct ownership and his personal signature represent the rarest tier of Presley artifacts. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The instrument is accompanied by its certificate of authenticity issued by Graceland Records dated September 20, 1995, and Unique Images. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rau-sfimages.s3.amazonaws.com\/dossier\/Dossier_32-2723.pdf\" target=\"new\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eView the Dossier\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44728014012551,"sku":"32-2723","price":650000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2723_1.png?v=1780579491"},{"product_id":"bob-dylans-guitar","title":"Bob Dylan's Guitar","description":"Bob Dylan's Aluminum-Body Fender Stratocaster\u003cbr\u003e Serial number NAMM 1993 #003\u003cbr\u003e Dated 1993 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Bob Dylan is widely regarded as one of the greatest songwriters of the 20th century, and this extraordinary custom Fender Stratocaster offers a direct connection to his revolutionary musical legacy. Created for the legendary musician, this experimental aluminum-body guitar embodies the innovation and individuality that defined both Dylan and Fender during one of the most creative eras in modern music history. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Crafted in 1993 by master builder J. Black of the Fender Custom Shop, the guitar is one of only four of its kind, each with unique decoration. Its striking engraved aluminum body is engraved in a flowing Art Nouveau style, transforming the iconic Stratocaster silhouette into a sculptural work of art. Signed beneath the pickguard “J. Black for Bob Dylan,” the instrument is accompanied by its original Fender invoice directing delivery to the care of Bob Dylan. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Few artists have reshaped popular music as profoundly as Bob Dylan. His controversial embrace of the electric guitar at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival altered the course of folk and rock music forever, with the Fender Stratocaster becoming inseparable from that transformation. Likewise, Fender’s Custom Shop has long stood at the forefront of guitar innovation, producing highly limited experimental instruments that push the boundaries of design and craftsmanship. This guitar, one of only four examples created for the 1993 NAMM show, represents an exceptionally rare intersection of musical history, artistic experimentation and rock-and-roll mythology. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed \"J. Black for Bob Dylan\" beneath the pickguard\u003cbr\u003e Bears the J. Black Custom Shop logo on the back of the headstock \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Guitar: 39\" high x 12 1\/2\" wide x 2 1\/2\" deep \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rau-sfimages.s3.amazonaws.com\/dossier\/Dossier_32-2724.pdf\" target=\"new\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eView the Dossier\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44728034558087,"sku":"32-2724","price":900000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2724_1_89708cb0-624b-4219-93aa-08a07b0983ef.png?v=1780144520"}],"url":"https:\/\/rauantiques.com\/collections\/6-26-sound-of-music.oembed","provider":"M.S. Rau","version":"1.0","type":"link"}