Early 20th Century Swiss Singing Bird Automaton by Reuge Music, Sainte-croix.

An early 20th century Swiss singing bird automaton by Reuge Music.

The automaton has two settings operated by flicking a switch underneath the cage, with the birds having two distinct calls with each setting. The latter setting has a music note next to it indicating that music was once played alongside the birds. Note that the music no longer plays, however both birds' still call loud and clear with different rhythms to each setting.

The birds and cage remain in a wholly original untouched condition. The cage is brass and of a French Bontem design, used as the model for early Griesbaum and ultimately became the enduring Reuge design as well. The bars of the cage are slightly warped on one side (please see photographs) but remain firm.

Inside the cage, there are two birds; one red and one yellow. The red bird has some thinning of feathers to the chest but remains in a very good condition overall. The yellow bird is missing a left eye, but otherwise remains in a good condition. Both birds sing when wound with the beaks opening and closing as they should. The birds are raised above the original green felt interior which shows signs of fading and wear commensurate with age, but has nonetheless retained its green shade (early examples often fade to grey).

Dimensions:-

Height: 26cm

Diameter (at base): 15cm

Weight: 785 grams

DELIVERY

UK Mainland: Free delivery

International Delivery: Please contact us for a no obligation delivery quote.

PAYMENT

We accept payment via debit card, credit card, Paypal, bank transfer or cheque. We also offer a 'Pay In 3' payment service through our website.

RETURNS

We are sure that you will be delighted with your purchase. Nonetheless, to ensure you have complete peace of mind, we offer a 14 day money back guarantee.

The purchased item may be returned, in its original condition, within 14 days from receipt. Return carriage costs are the responsibility of the buyer. For larger pieces requiring a specialist courier service, we will arrange your return for you with the cost being deducted from the refund (this cost will never exceed the original charge paid).

We ask that a trackable signature method of shipping is used for the return of smaller items as we cannot be held responsible for items lost in transit.

Should you have any queries at all, please do not hesitate to contact us.