info

Very rare “jardinière” singing bird by Bontems.

Made in Paris in the 4th quarter of the 19th century.

When activated with the hidden lever on the back, the lively bird sings his joyful tune while turning his head and moving the tail. It looks as if the bird is resting among the flowers. Within the known corpus of comparable examples, this bird can be regarded as particularly refined in both form and overall composition.

The mechanism is hidden in the porcelain base. Models like these were produced in very small numbers and are always unique. The pot is very colourful and extremely rare. Not many have survived until today.

Early and exceptional music box by Ducommun Girod with "exposed contols"

Ducommun Girod was one of the first manufacturers of music boxes early in the 19th century. He is known for his fine arrangements, and very refined made music boxes.

This music box plays 6 melodies as provided on the original melody card.

The polished base plate bears the serial number (11069) and the signature "Ducommun Girod"in the top lefthand corner of the bedplate.

The case consists of plain fruitwood, which is typical for that period.

The melody card is original, a bit faded, but readable.

The earliest music boxes always have a plain case and no marquetry, but they are without doubt the rarest, and of the highest musical quality.

Extremely Rare Gold Singing Bird Box by Charles Bruguier – Geneva, ca. 1840

A stunning and very rare gold fusee singing bird box by the renowned Swiss master Charles Bruguier, made in Geneva around 1840. Bruguier's work is considered among the finest of all 19th-century automaton makers, highly sought-after by collectors worldwide.

The rectangular case, richly chased with ivy tendrils, floral scrolls, and geometric borders, houses a central enamelled oval medallion depicting a hand-painted view of Mont Blanc. When the front lever is activated, the lid opens to reveal a lifelike bird with brilliantly colored real feathers. It sings a vibrant tune while turning its head, flapping its wings and tail, and rotating on its axis.

The numbered movement (No. 598) features an eight-cam song sequence (1-1-2-2-3-3-4) and is signed by the maker on the top plate. A gold key with split-seed pearl embellishment is included. The case is crafted in 14–17ct gold, with a total weight of 404g (case alone 197g).

In outstanding condition and with excellent mechanical performance (minor restoration to bellows possible), this piece stands out as one of the few known gold-cased Bruguier bird boxes. A true gem in both craftsmanship and rarity – a must-have for any serious collector.