An outstanding Karl Griesbaum Silver Singing Bird Automaton Music Box, Early 20th Century, high relief instruments, sheet music and flower adorned oval top over a gilt brass grill pierced and engraved with flowers and foliage, box stamped with Griesbaum's hallmark, box with raised relief instruments, peacocks and other birds of paradise at play amongst the c-scroll and foliage through out, brightly feathered revolving bird with moving wings, beak and tail, controlled by two cams mounted beneath the barrel wheel, going barrel and rectangular bellow, the bird rich in plumage in dark purple, reddish and orange with green iridescent highlights and is set with garnet cabochon eyes. The box comes with cute and clever bird shaped key for the winding mechanism. When wound and the bird-form actuation slide has been moved to the right, the bird makes her appearance by rising through the chased gilt grille, moving metal beak, wings, tail feather and body from side-to-side to continuous synchronized birdsong. Note: Originally, singing bird boxes were constructed to teach canaries to sing a particular melody. Later, they became one of the most favorite Chinese Emperors' luxury objects. In the Forbidden City Collection there are numerous examples, such as a singing bird clock by Hangry, or an unsigned French clock with enamel panels and singing bird box. They were some of the most expensive purchases the Emperors made. The box present here is based on one of the most expensive designs by Griesbaum produced in the 1920's and 1930's. DETAILS: - CASE SIZE: 4" Length x 2-3/4" Width x 1-3/4" Height (closed). - CONDITION: Has recently been cleaned and serviced and the mechanisms is absolutely wonderfully performing. This rare piece of decorative art would make an incredibly impressive addition to any fine household or collection. ***NOTE: SEE THIS MUSIC BOX SING via our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ThisArtGallery/

Excellent