Music Box, Nicole Frères, Geneva, Large Cylinder, 1870 -1880

Description

Nicole Frères (Geneva, Switzerland)
Large Cylinder Music Box with Mandolin Attachment
Circa 1870–1880

Rosewood and kingwood veneered case with musical inlay
Fat cylinder, 12 airs, two-per-turn

This exceptional Swiss cylinder music box was produced by the celebrated firm Nicole Frères of Geneva, internationally regarded as one of the finest manufacturers of mechanical musical instruments during the 19th century. Dating to the late Victorian period, the box represents the technical and artistic peak of the Swiss music box industry.

The movement features a substantial fat cylinder capable of playing twelve operatic airs, arranged two tunes per revolution, producing rich tonal depth and excellent projection. The inclusion of a mandolin attachment enhances harmonic texture and clarity, creating a layered, resonant musical character highly prized by collectors.

The case is finely veneered in rosewood with kingwood crossbanding and elegant canted corners, enriched by delicate musical marquetry to the lid and front panel. An ebonised plinth provides visual contrast and structural stability. The interior lid displays an ornate lithographed tune sheet and decorative inlay, reflecting the high level of craftsmanship associated with elite Geneva workshops.

Music boxes of this quality were luxury objects commissioned for affluent households and are now increasingly rare survivals of precision engineering and decorative art. Examples retaining strong musical performance and original cabinetry are particularly sought after within international collections.

Maker: Nicole Frères, Geneva
Date: Circa 1870–1880
Movement: Fat cylinder, 12 airs, two-per-turn, mandolin attachment
Case: Rosewood veneer with kingwood crossbanding and marquetry

Size width 31.3 cm x 16 cm height x 14.5 cm depth Size width 31.3 cm x 16 cm height x 14.5 cm depth

Weight 9.4 kg

Barometers and Clocks

Clocks, Mantle clocks, music boxes, and other similar items may require service after transportation and are sold as decorative pieces. Please note, whilst the clock currently works, during transport, all clocks are moved around a lot, and therefore, they may require setting up upon receiving them, as well as the possibility of requiring professional assistance or service, as they can get ‘stuck’. There is no guarantee that the clock will work smoothly after it has been transported. Overall, the clock is in good working condition. The ormolu is in good condition and retains a very good colour.

Most objects sold in our gallery are antiques, vintage or used; therefore, they will show signs of being antique, vintage or used. There may be signs of scratches, discolouration, chips, cracks, wear and tear, unknown manufacturers and/or patterns. Please see the photographs as they form part of the description.  Overseas buyers may have to pay any import duties, taxes, or fees that may apply. All items are meticulously wrapped and prepared for both international and UK shipping. Overseas buyers should contact us for courier charges.