Singing bird snuff box
Singing bird snuff box
Switzerland, Geneva
Circa 1830
Bruguier, Charles-Abraham (The Senior)
Enamel, steel, brass, feathers, cardboard, leather, fabric; casting, gilding, champlevé enamel, painted enamel, mechanical works, engraving, engine-turning (guilloché)
Case: 6.2 x 13.3 x 10.4 cm, snuff box: 8.75 x 3.125 x 6.25 cm
On the top panel of the mechanism: number '89', 'I. (T.) ANWINKIBY (AHWINKIPY)
A singing bird snuff box in a casket-shaped, gilt-metal case with rounded corners. The reverse features a tobacco compartment with an upward-opening lid, mirror-polished on the inside. On the front right side is a sliding lever to activate the bird mechanism. When activated, the oval medallion lid automatically opens, and a miniature brightly plumed, long-tailed bird emerges from a field with a pierced grille. Sound mechanism simulates bird chirping. Upon completion of the program, the bird retracts and the lid lowers.
5622.1-3/ДПИ