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Silver Gilt Bird Box by Charles Bruguier
- This singing bird box by Charles Bruguier is an extraordinary example of the rare automata
- Its finely chased rectangular case is crafted in gilt silver
- A delicate bird emerges from its enamel-painted lid to sing its delightful song
- Bruguier's technique for recreating the bird's song achieved striking realism, producing an astoundingly beautiful sound
- Get complete item description here
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Charles Bruguier
Circa 1845 with later date inscription 1885
This enchanting silver-gilt singing bird box by the great Charles Bruguier houses an exceptionally intricate fusee-driven automaton movement within its richly decorated case. The oval lid is centered by a finely painted enamel pastoral scene, while the interior is brightly enameled with floral bouquets against a vivid turquoise ground. The top, sides and base are further embellished with engine-turned and engraved. . .
Charles Bruguier
Circa 1845 with later date inscription 1885
This enchanting silver-gilt singing bird box by the great Charles Bruguier houses an exceptionally intricate fusee-driven automaton movement within its richly decorated case. The oval lid is centered by a finely painted enamel pastoral scene, while the interior is brightly enameled with floral bouquets against a vivid turquoise ground. The top, sides and base are further embellished with engine-turned and engraved ornament.
When activated, the lid opens to reveal a lifelike feathered bird that sings a joyful melody while turning its head, opening its beak, fluttering its wings and tail and rotating with captivating realism. At the conclusion of the song, the turquoise-feathered bird retreats beneath an engraved and pierced oval grille. The underside bears a presentation inscription dated 28 October 1885, suggesting the box was gifted to commemorate a special occasion.
Charles Abraham Bruguier (1788–1862), the last true heir to the Jaquet-Droz tradition, honed his craft in Geneva and London. He elevated singing bird mechanisms with remarkable refinement, building upon the innovations of Les Frères Rochat and Jaquet-Droz. Bruguier's technique for recreating birdsong achieved striking realism, producing an exceptionally lifelike sound. His creations endure as mechanical masterpieces, blending sound, motion and the finest ornament.
1 1/4" high x 3 3/4" wide x 2 1/2" deep
Provenance:
Private collection, Belgium/New York
M.S. Rau, New Orleans
| Period: | 19th Century |
| Origin: | Switzerland |
| Type: | Bird Boxes |
| Depth: | 2.5 in. (6.35 cm) |
| Width: | 3.75 in. (9.53 cm) |
| Height: | 1.25 in. (3.18 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
