Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Antique Musical Bird Boxes

Perhaps the most interesting, and exquisite works of art to collect, are antique musical bird boxes.
These highly sought after vintage pieces, were created with the utmost workmanship, and detail. They were crafted using the finest metals; solid gold, silver, or bronze. More elaborate decorations included enamelling, porcelain, and even further adornment with precious gems. The bird boxes were bestowed upon royalty and the like. Made in Germany, Switzerland, France, etc., these beautiful instruments have been cherished, and passed down from generation to generation.
The intricate mechanisms that lay inside these small treasures, allow the tiniest of birds to "sing"  and "take flight" atop a glistening stage, to mesmerize the child in us all.
Here are two fine examples, of these amazing musical masterpieces, in action. Please take a look....

             Video courtesy, Musical Instrument Museum, via YouTube


                           Video courtesy, Skinner, via YouTube


How beautiful, and charming these boxes are, don't you think? Here are some more images for you to enjoy....




                All photos courtesy, Gavin Douglas Fine Antiques Ltd.

What a truly unique gift to give that special person, who means everything to you, and perhaps has everything they'll ever need already. A sweet token of love that will sing it's way into your honey's heart. Or maybe, you just need to start a unique collection of songbirds for yourself.... after all, there'll be no cages to clean. -Al