A Swiss automaton singing bird box
Late 19th/early 20th century
Appears unmarked
The fusee driven singing bird box housed in a chased gilt metal case, the cobalt blue enameled top featuring painted floral accents surrounding a hinged lid adorned with a painted pastoral scene, opening when wound to reveal a rotating figural animated bird of assembled feathers and armature, with articulating wings and beak
1.75" H x 4.25" W x 2.75" D

Overall good condition with minor scuffs and scratches and mild oxidation to metal. Occasionally, the bird sticks when its cycle is complete, impeding the action of the closing lid. Includes associated winding key. Case unopened and untested for proper functioning of mechanical components. Moran's does not guarantee the working condition of musical instruments. Condition reports are offered as a courtesy and are typically published in Moran's catalogue or can be made available upon request. The absence of a condition report does not imply that an item is free from defects or restoration, nor does a reference to particular defects imply the absence of others. Buyers are responsible for determining to their own satisfaction the true nature and condition of any lot prior to bidding. Though buyers are not legally required to inspect lots prior to purchase, failure to do so may constitute a waiver of complaint that an item was not delivered in a condition equal to the existent condition at the auction.