Music Box, Antique 19th-Century, Victorian Music, Box with British Coat of Arms

£950

“A Regal Treasure: 19th-Century Victorian Music Box with British Coat of Arms”

Victorian Swiss Cylinder Music Box with Bells, 19th Century, Playing “Bells in Vue”

A fine nineteenth-century Swiss cylinder music box housed in a handsome walnut case, representing the refined mechanical craftsmanship for which Swiss makers were celebrated during the Victorian period. The rectangular case displays attractive figured wood with a simple line inlay to the front panel, opening to reveal the original mechanism and interior fittings.

Description

Victorian Swiss Cylinder Music Box with Bells, 19th Century, Playing “Bells in Vue”

A fine nineteenth-century Swiss cylinder music box housed in a handsome walnut case, representing the refined mechanical craftsmanship for which Swiss makers were celebrated during the Victorian period. The rectangular case displays attractive figured wood with a simple line inlay to the front panel, opening to reveal the original mechanism and interior fittings.

The interior houses a pinned cylinder movement accompanied by a set of three polished bells with decorative butterfly strikers, producing bright chiming accents to accompany the musical programme. The tune sheet fixed inside the lid lists the airs under the title “Bells in Vue,” framed by an attractive decorative printed border featuring classical figures and ornamental motifs. The movement is operated by a side-winding mechanism and control levers that allow the user to start, stop, or repeat the music.

Swiss cylinder music boxes of this type were highly prized during the nineteenth century as both musical entertainment and decorative luxury objects. The addition of bells was considered a premium feature, enhancing the musical complexity and charm of the performance.

The music box remains in fair working condition and may benefit from professional servicing to achieve optimal performance. The mechanism needs servicing. The case shows signs of age and use consistent with its nineteenth-century origin, adding to its authentic antique character.

An appealing example of Victorian mechanical ingenuity, combining decorative craftsmanship with musical artistry, ideal for collectors of antique music boxes and mechanical instruments.

Size 18.5 x 10.7 x 9 inches (47 x 27 x 23 cm)

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.  In some countries, overseas buyers may be required to pay import duties, taxes, or fees. All items are meticulously wrapped and prepared for both UK and international shipping. Overseas buyers, please get in touch for courier charges.

Clocks, Mantle clocks, music boxes, and other similar items may require service after transportation and are sold as decorative pieces. Please note, whilst clocks currently work, 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. Leans Gallery does not guarantee any barometers, clocks, or music boxes to be in working order.