Large Swiss Orchestral Music Box On A Pedestal, Second Half Of The 19th Century

A rare, large Swiss orchestral music box, displayed on its original pedestal. The body, with its sloping sides, is crafted from rosewood and kingwood, richly adorned with geometric and ornamental inlays, as well as gilded bronze side handles. The design is accentuated by a solid, molded base and turned legs, giving the piece the character of a true salon piece of high artistic merit.

Inside is a highly complex keyless spring-driven mechanism, featuring a brass cylinder and a steel comb, enhanced with orchestral effects including bells, a drum, castanets, and organ stops. Such a combination places this specimen in the top tier of orchestral music boxes, designed to perform an extensive musical program with the sonic illusion of a small instrumental ensemble. The inside of the lid features an original tune card, listing the pieces, which has been preserved since the music box was manufactured—a particularly valuable element attesting to the object’s authenticity and integrity.

Materials: Rosewood, kingwood, brass, steel, gilded bronze.
Dimensions: Height 86 cm; Width 93 cm.
Condition: Very good condition. Complete professional overhaul of the mechanism and body, preserving the original parts and settings.
Provenance: Private collection.

ID-ANTQ-16247