Swiss Music Box, 1890s

Beautiful music box made in Switzerland in 1890. Its movement has three bells and delicate automat butterflies that move with the music. The box is in optimal condition and has been fully restored in order to show off the great look that we can appreciate in the photographs. It is made of solid wood, with marquetry-work front side and lid and lacquered sides and back, with a finish that imitates some dark woods veneer. The inside, legs and the external molding of the lid have been ebonized so they boast a soft and deep black color. On the other hand, the mechanism works perfectly and can play eigth melodies.The comb that is part of the mechanism is complete and has no teeth left. The bells are also original and in perfect condition. Though originally there were three automat butterflies, two of them are well preserved (the ones at each side) and the other has lost its wings. The insects body has been discreetly painted black so the overall is balanced and decorative. The butterflies are made of brass and show a high attention to detail, with their wings painted blue, black, red and white. The music box sounds wonderfully and combines its decorative beauty with the charming music it reproduces.As stated before, both the lid and the front of the box show a nice marquetry-work covering. Both pieces are similar in design: a wide rectangular walnut veneer is framed by two slim citronella wood lines, with a light wood outside edge made of pieces disposed in a diamond shape. The faux wood finish of the sides and the back is expertly performed with a dark varnish over a light wood plank. The inside black lacquered finish is deep and shiny, and the lid keeps the original lock and key.This delicate music box will enlighten any event held in the finest living room, and will also be a key piece in its decoration.Measurements: Width: 420 mm. Depth: 245 mm. Height: 220 mm.