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Jeweled Singing Bird Box
- This enamel and jewel-mounted singing bird box is a captivating example of mechanical artistry
- With the press of a mechanism, the concealed bird comes to life in a performance of song
- The finely constructed filigreed brass case is richly adorned with gems and polychrome enamel
- Mechanical singing bird boxes such as this evolved from the European tradition of luxury automata
- Get complete item description here
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Circa 1880
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.
The finely constructed filigreed brass case is richly adorned with gems and polychrome enamel floral motifs. The. . .
Circa 1880
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.
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.
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 tabatières 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.
2 1/4" high x 4 1/4" wide x 3 1/8" deep
| Period: | 19th Century |
| Type: | Bird Boxes |
| Depth: | 3.13 in. (7.94 cm) |
| Width: | 4.25 in. (10.8 cm) |
| Height: | 2.25 in. (5.72 cm) |
Buy With Confidence
For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.
On Approval
Examine select works in person before you commit
125% Guarantee
Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years
Trusted Expertise
Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists
