Description
An Antique Swiss Music Box.
The A large drum music box, end of the 19th century in a veneered wooden body, and a hinged lid with floral inlay. Under the lid, a second lid with a glass insert, reveals the mechanism. The automaton plays 12 Aires, the mechanism is in working order, but may need a little servicing by a horologist after transportation/shipping.
The Interior of the lid has the original paper tune sheet listing each song and its composer. A rare and beautiful turn mandolin antique music box made by probably the prestigious firm of Nicole Freres of Geneva, Switzerland in c. 1870/80.
It is most unusual in that it plays 12 operatic tunes – a high volume of songs for a Nicole Freres two-per-turn box – and I believe very few of these boxes were made. The movement features a fat cylinder and has a very nice sound with fine mandolin arrangements of the music. It has all been fully serviced and is in excellent condition.
The case is also rather special, veneered in rosewood with finely detailed musical inlay motifs to both the lid and the front, together with kingwood crossbanding, canted corners, and all sitting on an ebonised plinth.
All aspects of this music box mark it as superior quality and rather special. Some wear with age, exterior is in relatively good condition
Size width 31.3 cm x 16 cm height x 14.5 cm depth
Weight 9.4 kg
We strive to describe each item as accurately as possible, and photographs form an essential part of the item description. Please review them carefully prior to purchase. Please note that no mercury or liquids will be included in the item as it is prohibited for transport. Leans Gallery does not guarantee the working of Clocks, Music Boxes and Barometers. Any qualified local horologist can refill or service the instrument with ease.
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